Idris Elba plans to move to Africa to help local filmmaking: ‘ Important that we own those stories’

Idris Elba plans to move to Africa to develop the local film industry, focusing on authentic African stories

Idris Elba has revealed his intentions to relocate to Africa as part of his efforts to develop the continent's film industry. The British actor shared his plans at the Africa Cinema Summit in Accra, Ghana, saying, "It’s really important that we own those stories of our tradition, of our culture, of our languages." Elba, known for his roles in Luther and Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, emphasized the need for African filmmakers to create narratives that aren’t framed by colonialist perspectives but rather reflect the true diversity of the continent.

Elba has previously announced plans to build a film studio in Tanzania and stated that his long-term ambition for African filmmaking would necessitate living on the continent. "It’s going to happen... I need to be in-country, on the continent," he said. The actor is expected to split his time between Ghana, Sierra Leone, and Zanzibar, where he plans to help develop local talent and bolster filmmaking infrastructure.

Elba also noted that African stories are often overshadowed by negative portrayals of trauma, war, and colonization in Western media. Through his involvement, he aims to promote more positive, authentic representations of African culture. Additionally, he is part of a project developing an “eco city” on Sherbro Island in Sierra Leone.