Idris Elba, the British actor known for his work in the TV show “The Wire,” has announced his plans to relocate to Africa within the next few years to support its burgeoning movie industry. The actor’s interest in spreading awareness about Africa’s film business is already visible through his efforts in setting up a film studio in Zanzibar, Tanzania and one in Accra, Ghana. Elba also shares a deep connection to the continent through his parents, with his mother hailing from Ghana and his father from Sierra Leone.
Elba did not specify a particular location in Africa where he plans to settle, but expressed his excitement about travelling to different places on the continent in search of stories to be told. With his aim firmly focused on promoting African stories on a global platform, the actor said he considers investing in his passion for storytelling an investment for the continent itself.
Despite the growth in Africa’s film production, piracy, an inadequate number of training opportunities, and the absence of official film institutions continue to be major setbacks for the industry, according to a 2022 report by Unesco. Elba believes that providing the right level of momentum and governance support can turn the tables and establish a virtuous circle in African cinema.
Elba continually stresses the importance of Africans taking center stage both in front and behind the camera and getting involved in financing, marketing, and showing the final product. Through their efforts, the actor hopes it will lead to greater appreciation for African cultures and languages worldwide, leading to a more nuanced understanding of differences among cultures. With Nigeria’s Nollywood boasting a tally of hundreds of successful movie titles per year, cinema may have become one of the country’s foremost exports. Several Francophone African nations have followed suit and are creating high-quality films
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