Idris Elba plans to build Ghana film studio

Actor Idris Elba has announced plans to build a film studio in Ghana, after meeting with the country’s President Nana Akufo-Addo.

“Currently, we call it West African Studios, but that’s a working title. We’ve been working on this for three or four years to raise a plan that puts a facility at the centre of African filmmaking. There’s a lot for African filmmaking, but the facilities are lacking,” the British actor told Ghanaian media.

He said that he hopes the project will attract more filmmakers to Ghana and West Africa.

Idris Elba also said good policy will play a crucial role in developing Africa’s film industry

Elba also revealed that he plans to film a movie in Ghana in December – which will be the second time he has gone to the country to do so.

However, some people have criticised the move, saying the actor was side-lining his Sierra Leonean roots.

He addressed this on hisTwitter, telling his Sierra Leonean fans: “I haven’t forgotten about you”.

“African governments move at their own pace not mine, but progress for one is progress for ALL.SL peeps don’t worry i haven’t forgotten about you….. my mother always told me this saying in Krio….Patient dog go eat fat bone,” read his tweet.

Idris Elba is best known for staring in several film and TV productions including Luther, Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom and The Wire, amongst others.