Idris Elba to Establish Film Studio in Zanzibar to Boost African Film Industry

British actor Idris Elba, renowned for his roles in Luther and The Wire, has been allocated land in Zanzibar, Tanzania, to establish a film studio. Elba, who has heritage ties to Sierra Leone and Ghana, has long expressed his ambition to contribute to the development of Africa’s burgeoning film industry.

Nearly a year and a half after discussing the idea with Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, the East African nation has approved the project. The planned studio aims to rival those in “Hollywood, Nollywood, or Bollywood,” potentially giving rise to “Zollywood,” as Zanzibar’s investment minister Shariff Ali Shariff playfully suggested at the Zanzibar International Film Festival. The studio’s name remains undecided, with options like “Zollywood” or “Zawood” being considered.

The initial discussion between Elba and President Samia occurred at the World Economic Forum in Switzerland in January 2023. The president’s spokesperson later emphasised that the project could benefit Tanzania and the broader regions of eastern and central Africa.

Zanzibar, a semi-autonomous region off the coast of Tanzania known for its stunning white beaches, is a popular tourist destination. Establishing a film studio there is expected to enhance the area’s cultural landscape and provide new opportunities for the local film industry.

Elba’s vision extends beyond Zanzibar. In February 2023, he discussed plans to build a film studio in Ghana, tentatively named West African Studios. Elba highlighted the abundant talent within Africa’s film industry but acknowledged the need for better infrastructure and facilities.

A 2022 report from UNESCO supports Elba’s observations, noting that despite significant growth in film production across Africa, the industry faces challenges such as piracy, inadequate training, and a lack of official film institutions.

In addition to his film industry ambitions, Elba aspires to develop an eco-friendly “smart city” in Sierra Leone, where his father was born. Alongside a childhood friend, Elba plans to regenerate an island off the coast of the West African country, further demonstrating his commitment to supporting Africa’s growth and development.

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