Idris Elba granted Sierra Leone citizenship

Idris Elba has been granted citizenship in Sierra Leone, his father’s homeland, calling it “the biggest honor I could get from my country.”

The British actor, whose father was Sierra Leonean and mother Ghanaian, expressed pride in connecting with his roots, saying the Sierra Leone passport lets him return “as a son of the soil.”

During his first visit to the country, Elba plans to explore Sherbro Island’s pristine beaches and spend Christmas with President Julius Maada Bio.

While his trip is private, sources indicate his interest in investing in Sierra Leone’s tourism sector. Elba joins other global stars, like Akon, who have shown interest in West African development.

Tourism remains a vital economic driver for many African nations, including Sierra Leone.