The recent announcement of British actor Idrissa Akuna Elba, commonly known as Idris Elba’s relocation to Africa, in Accra, Freetown, and Zanzibar, will largely support the African film industry.
His pronouncement has sent waves of excitement across the continent, and it is poised to deliver a significant impact on Africa’s creative industry.
Elba, known for his iconic roles in Luther, Mandela: The Long Walk to Freedom, and Thor, has always proudly showcased his African heritage.
The decision to relocate to Zanzibar, a United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) world heritage site, underscores his commitment to connecting with his roots.
The 52-year-old who played South African anti-apartheid leader Nelson Mandela in the 2013 movie “Long Walk to Freedom” believes that it is vital for Africans to be center-stage in the entire film-making process, that is, in front of the camera, behind the camera, and also in financing, distribution, marketing, and showing the final product.
According to Elba, collaboration with African storytellers will lead to authentic, high-quality content and local content development. His involvement will raise the profile of African cinema, increasing its global appeal and recognition.
Elba is an English actor, rapper, singer, and DJ. She was born in London by a Ghanaian mother and father from Sierra Leone.
He has received a Golden Globe Award as well as nominations for three BAFTA Awards and six Emmy Awards. In 2016, he was named in the Time 100 list of the most influential people in the world.
