Idris Elba is building an entertainment industry in Africa

Idris Elba is working to transform Africa’s entertainment industry by building modern film studios, beginning in Zanzibar, Tanzania. This vision emerged after discussions with Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan at the World Economic Forum. The Zanzibar government has already allocated nearly 200 acres for the first studio, which Elba hopes will serve as a foundation for an African entertainment hub, potentially called “Zallywood.”

Elba believes Africa’s creative sector is underrepresented globally, with much of the imagery about the continent generated outside of Africa. By building studios and encouraging local storytelling, he aims to shift the narrative and provide African creatives with the infrastructure to succeed. He also highlights the economic potential, with Africa’s film industry projected to create 20 million jobs and add $20 billion to GDP by 2030.

To address payment challenges in regions with limited banking infrastructure, Elba has launched Akuna Wallet, a blockchain-based platform for artists to manage payments and royalties digitally. This project, piloted in Ghana, aims to bring financial inclusion to African creatives, ensuring they can monetize their work and grow the industry.

Source: CNN