Idris Elba Set to Launch New Film Studio in Ghana
Idris Elba is gearing up to bring some Hollywood magic to Ghana.
According to multiple reports, the British actor, whose parents hail from Sierra Leone and Ghana, is looking to build several film studios across Africa.
The “Luther” star received the green light after a meeting with Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Their discussions led to plans for the first studio in Zanzibar.
Elba voiced concerns about the lack of representation for Africa’s creative industry on the global stage.
“Much of the imagery about Africa isn’t even generated from Africa,” Elba told CNN at the Stellar Development Foundation’s Meridian conference in London this week. “A lot of media is centered around (negative depictions of Africa). But the median age in Africa is 19; these young people are optimistic and deserve the chance to tell their own stories.”
According to a recent UNESCO report, Africa’s film and audiovisual industry could create 20 million jobs and add $20 billion to the continent’s GDP by 2030.
Still, the seasoned star understands that building studios alone won’t spark an entertainment revolution. A crucial part of the solution is figuring out how to pay creators in areas with limited banking systems.
In August, the government of Zanzibar reportedly promised “The Wire” star nearly 200 acres to begin construction.
