Stars, Stories, and Synergy: Akuna Viewing Party Ignites Creative Spirit
Over 500 attendees. One electrifying film. Endless inspiration.
On a balmy evening at Accra’s iconic Labadi Beach Hotel, over 500 guests gathered under the starlit sky for an unforgettable experience, the Akuna Viewing Party, powered by the Akunapod of Akuna Group. The occasion? A celebratory screening of Heads of State, the explosive new action-comedy featuring none other than Akuna Group’s Chairman, Idris Elba.
But this was no ordinary movie night. It was a vibrant fusion of storytelling, culture, and community, a cinematic homecoming that lit a fire in Ghana’s creative pulse.
A Night of Cinema, Culture, and Connection
From the moment guests arrived, the atmosphere was electric. The ocean breeze carried a rhythm of excitement, as creatives, entrepreneurs, media professionals, and cultural tastemakers mingled in anticipation of the evening’s feature film.
As the lights dimmed and Heads of State burst onto the screen, the energy was palpable. Laughter, gasps, and applause rippled through the crowd as Idris Elba’s magnetic performance captured hearts and stirred imaginations.
“Step into a night where storytelling and rhythm become one.”
— Akuna Group
Powered by Purpose: The Akunapod Difference
The event was more than entertainment, it was a bold demonstration of Akuna Group’s mission in action. Through the Akunapod, Akuna is creating dynamic experiences that bring together creativity, technology, and investment to inspire a new generation of storytellers across Africa.
At its core, the viewing party was a manifestation of Akuna Group’s larger vision: to build a new entertainment economy rooted in authenticity, ownership, and equity. By anchoring events like this in local contexts, Akuna is shaping platforms where African talent doesn’t just shine, but leads.
“At Akuna Group, we’re igniting a transformative journey by leveraging innovation, strategic investments, and groundbreaking partnerships.”
Beyond the Screen: Conversations that Matter
Following the screening, the beachside conversations flowed deep into the night. From emerging filmmakers exchanging ideas to media executives plotting the next wave of content innovation, the event sparked dialogue and collaboration.
Several rising stars and Ghanaian content creators shared how seeing Idris Elba, a global icon with African roots headline a major film, and celebrate it locally, reaffirmed their belief in the power of African narratives to travel globally.
Akuna to the World: The Movement Grows
The Akuna Viewing Party is just one part of a larger movement. With creative precincts under development, educational programs underway, and a fast-growing slate of African IP, Akuna is building the infrastructure to support a continent of creators.
Akuna is transforming how stories are made, shared, and monetized, unlocking opportunities that are as boundless as the imagination.
Watch the Highlights
Strengthening Cross-Continental Creative Alliances: Akuna Group’s Strategic Engagements in Ghana
Akuna Group continues to lead the charge in redefining Africa’s creative and cultural narrative through bold partnerships and visionary leadership. In a landmark week of diplomatic and institutional engagement, our leadership team took pivotal steps toward forging alliances that will amplify Ghana’s and Africa’s global creative influence.
Advancing Ghana’s Creative Future: Strategic Talks with Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, M.P.
We were deeply honored to engage in a high-level dialogue with the Honorable Abla Dzifa Gomashie (M.P), Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts of Ghana. The discussions focused on forging impactful collaborations designed to elevate Ghana’s vibrant tourism and creative sectors.
This meeting marks a significant milestone in Akuna’s mission to foster an inclusive, world-class creative ecosystem across the African continent. We are inspired by the Ministry’s shared commitment to nurturing cultural heritage, empowering creative talent, and attracting investment that benefits local communities. Together, we envision a future where Ghana stands as a global beacon of cultural excellence and innovation.
Forging UAE-Ghana Bridges: A Visionary Meeting at the UAE Embassy in Accra
Akuna Group also had the distinct honor of being received by H.E. Dr. Abdulla Al Mandoos, UAE Ambassador to the Republic of Ghana, at the UAE Embassy in Accra. Led by our Group CEO, Afua Amoah, the Akuna delegation explored transformative opportunities for collaboration through the Ghana-UAE Innovation Hub, a bold initiative to foster creative and economic ties between the two nations.
Afua was joined by Mariam Kaleem A-Buahin, COO of Akuna Group Ghana, and acclaimed filmmaker Tony Tagoe, Co-Founder of Akuna Ghana Ltd. Their presence underscored the Group’s deep-rooted commitment to pan-African creative growth, entrepreneurship, and global partnerships.
We extend our sincere gratitude to Ambassador Al Mandoos for his warm hospitality and visionary leadership. The meeting underscored the importance of cross-continental cooperation in unlocking new possibilities for Africa’s creative economy, from digital content production and education to international co-productions and technology integration.
Looking Ahead: Uniting Visionaries for Creative Impact
These engagements reaffirm Akuna Group’s belief that the future of creativity lies in unity, leadership, and strategic investment. We are energized by the shared momentum with Ghanaian and UAE stakeholders and we remain steadfast in our commitment to catalyzing Global creative transformation.
By uniting government bodies, diplomatic partners, and creative leaders, Akuna is building the foundation for a dynamic, globally competitive ecosystem that empowers storytellers, inspires innovation, and drives economic prosperity across borders.
Stay tuned as we continue this exciting journey to unlock extraordinary creative potentials globally.
Akuna Group at SXSW London 2025: Idris Elba Unveils a Vision for African Creative Empowerment
This June, at the inaugural SXSW London 2025, Akuna Group’s Co-founder and Chairman, Idris Elba, led a stirring call to action for Africa’s creative revolution. In a city long synonymous with global cultural innovation, Elba took center stage in Shoreditch to spotlight how creativity, technology, and infrastructure can be transformative forces for millions of African creatives.
Creativity as Capital for Change
Idris Elba’s headline panel, “Creativity as Capital for Change,” was a standing-room-only event at The Truman Brewery. Moderated by BBC presenter Clara Amfo, the conversation featured an inspiring lineup including film director Stefan Schwartz, Akuna Wallet Managing Director Kwadwo Owusu-Agyeman, creative technologist Manon Dave, and Ghanaian superstar DJ Vyrusky.
The panel explored how creativity must be recognized not merely as artistic expression, but as an economic engine, especially across Africa where youthful energy and raw talent often collide with systemic barriers. “Creativity is the new currency,” Elba emphasized, calling for a paradigm shift that views storytellers, artists, and makers as economic stakeholders deserving of infrastructure, investment, and innovation.
Introducing Akuna Wallet: Financial Tools for the Creative Class
One of the standout moments of the session was the unveiling of Akuna Wallet, a digital payment platform designed by Akuna Group in partnership with the Stellar Development Foundation.
Akuna Wallet enables African creatives to receive international payments seamlessly through blockchain technology, an essential breakthrough in regions where traditional banking often stifles cross-border commerce.
DJ Vyrusky shared a personal testimonial about the wallet's early use in Ghana, explaining how the tool removes financial friction for creatives looking to earn from global clients and platforms. “This isn’t just a fintech solution,” said Owusu-Agyeman, “It’s economic inclusion for the creative economy.”
The African Odeon: Reimagining Cinema Infrastructure
Elba also unveiled an ambitious new frontier: The African Odeon, Akuna Group’s bold initiative to develop a network of modern cinemas across the continent.
With over 1.4 billion people and fewer than 3,000 functional cinemas in Africa, Elba spotlighted the dire need for infrastructure that restores the collective, theatrical film experience.
“Our audiences deserve more than watching on mobile phones,” he said. “We want to create spaces where African stories are experienced the way they were meant to be on the big screen, in community.”
The African Odeon is envisioned not just as a cinematic space but as an economic node, with ripple effects for content production, job creation, and youth engagement.
Talking Scripts: Empowering Neurodiverse Creatives
In a deeply personal reflection, Elba revealed his own challenges with dyslexia and reading, and introduced Talking Scripts, an AI-driven tool that converts written film scripts into audio.
Created in collaboration with director Stefan Schwartz, the innovation is aimed at making the filmmaking process more accessible for neurodivergent talent, writers, actors, directors, and crew who have historically been marginalized by rigid industry norms.
“It’s not just for people like me, it’s for every creative mind that works differently but has something powerful to say,” Elba shared.
Akuna’s North Star: African Creativity on the World Stage
Throughout the session and beyond, Elba emphasized that Africa’s creative contributions, Afrobeats, Nollywood, digital art, and beyond are reshaping global culture. What’s missing, he argued, is the infrastructure and intentionality to allow this momentum to scale sustainably.
Akuna Group’s ecosystem; from payments and education to content and exhibition; exists to solve that. Through partnerships, policy advocacy, and platform building, we are nurturing a future where African talent doesn’t just contribute to global culture, it defines it.
SXSW London: A Global Platform, An African Future
As SXSW London concluded its debut edition, it was clear that Akuna Group had not just participated, but set the tone. The conversations sparked by Idris Elba’s keynote reverberated across tech and creative circles, cementing Akuna’s role as a catalyst for change.
At Akuna, we believe in the power of storytelling and we’re building the tools, platforms, and pipelines that will enable the next generation of African storytellers to thrive.
“Fame isn’t the prize,” Elba said. “It’s what you do with it that counts.”
We couldn’t agree more.
Celebrated by Ga Land, Idris Elba Launches Film Studio Initiative in Accra
Renowned British actor and filmmaker Idris Elba returned to Ghana on March 25, 2025, in a historic visit to pay homage as a son of the Ga land under the reign of King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II. His homecoming was marked by a grand ceremony at the Ga Mantse Palace, where he was honored for his contributions to the African diaspora and his commitment to the development of Ghana’s creative industry.
Upon his arrival in Accra, Elba was warmly welcomed by Justice Naa Yaale, Chief of Staff to the Ga Mantse and daughter of the late Ako Adjei, one of Ghana’s revered Big Six independence heroes. Her presence highlighted the deep historical and cultural significance of the occasion, symbolizing a connection between Ghana’s rich past and its promising future.
The atmosphere at the palace was electric, with drummers, dancers, and a vibrant display of Ga culture.
“One of the goals I have tried to achieve is to bring the industry back to Africa,” Elba stated passionately. “We have earmarked 22 acres of land beside Osu Castle for a fantastic studio and school that will serve our community in Accra.”
His announcement was met with resounding applause, as he detailed his vision to create a world-class film studio that would not only provide training and employment opportunities for young Ghanaian creatives but also serve as a major hub for African cinema.
King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, recognizing the importance of this initiative, pledged his full support for the project.
“Our children lack direction, our youth lack direction, and we need these tools,” the Ga Mantse declared. “So, coming in to put up a studio and to partner with us is the way forward. That is why we will support it absolutely so that the creative arts industry, especially, creating Ga content can move to its next step.”
The event was attended by several high-profile figures from Ghana’s entertainment industry and beyond, including celebrated actors George Nii Armah, Chris Attoh, Kalsoume Sinare, and Adjetey Anang, as well as other dignitaries. Their presence underscored the significance of the occasion and the collective support for the development of the nation’s film and creative arts sector.
Elba’s visit and recognition as a son of the Ga land marks a pivotal moment in Ghana’s journey towards becoming a global center for film production. His commitment to fostering creative talent and preserving cultural heritage through storytelling aligns with his broader vision of connecting the African diaspora with the continent.
With the backing of the Ga Mantse and industry stakeholders, the proposed studio is set to revolutionize Ghana’s creative landscape, providing a space for innovation, collaboration, and the promotion of authentic African narratives.
As the ceremony drew to a close, Elba stood among his Ghanaian brothers and sisters not just as an acclaimed Hollywood star, but as a proud son of the land, dedicated to shaping the future of African cinema. His return was more than a celebration; it was the beginning of a transformative journey for Ghana’s film industry and the next generation of creatives.
Idris Elba Teams Up with Ghanaian Government to Launch Film Village Project
Idris Elba has returned to Ghana to collaborate with the Ghanaian government on an initiative, the establishment of a film village in Accra, where he met with President John Dramani Mahama at Jubilee House to discuss the ambitious plans for this project. A world-class film studio and training school to be established on 22 acres of land adjacent to Osu Castle. The project is aimed at creating training and employment opportunities for Ghanaian creatives thereby empowering the next generation of filmmakers, actors, and artists.
During the meeting, Idris Elba unveiled a stunning visual of the proposed site. The proposed film village, set to be named the Arts Heritage District, which is envisioned to be located near the historic Osu Castle (formerly known as Christianborg Castle) in Accra. He emphasized the importance of developing clear policies and regulations that align with international filmmaking standards. Noting that such measures would not only enhance the quality of productions in Ghana but also attract foreign investments, ultimately elevating the country’s creative arts industry on a global scale. President John Mahama welcomed this project and expressed his commitment to enhancing the proposal to maximize its impact on the Ghanaian film industry.
Idris Elba also visited King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, the Ga Mantse, who pledged his full support for the project. Highlighting; “Our children lack direction, our youth lack direction, and we need these tools, of establishing a robust film infrastructure in Ghana. The meeting also saw the presence of several prominent figures from Ghana’s entertainment industry, including actors, George Nii Armah, Chris Attoh, Kalsoume Sinare, and Adjetey Anang. These industry leaders voiced their enthusiasm for the project, highlighting its potential to transform Ghana’s creative industry and provide opportunities for local talent.
Idris Elba has been a vocal advocate for the African film industry, expressed his excitement about his visit in Ghana and the upcoming project, he took to his Instagram account to share:
“Back in Ghana and honestly feeling grateful, energised, and inspired. These past few days have been powerful. I met with His Excellency President John Mahama built with His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru Il, and connected with some of the brightest young minds from naftighana l’ve ever seen. Big moves always start with real conversations. Africa’s creative economy is rising, but it needs the right support, the right infrastructure, and most importantly, access. This isn’t just a visit. It’s the beginning of something bigger. A plan rooted in culture, creativity, and community that’s going to shape the future. We came here with a vision. Now we’re moving with momentum. Tell them. We are coming”
This collaboration between Idris Elba and the Ghanaian government will mark a great moment in the country’s entertainment industry, paving the way for a brighter future for the film industry, positioning Ghana as a premier destination for international film productions, further boosting tourism and economic growth.
Source: ttybrandafrica.com
Elba and Premier League: 'Time for Other Industries to Step Up' in Fight Against Youth Knife Crime
Actor highlights trauma faced by young people during meetings with police, teenagers and coaches at community football scheme
Idris Elba has highlighted the trauma faced by those at risk of youth violence, including knife crime, at a meeting with police and community figures, adding that he was confident the government would “pay attention” to the issue.
The actor and campaigner has been a vocal supporter of tackling knife crime and youth violence, and recently fronted a documentary on the issue.
At a roundtable discussion on Monday evening with regional community figures and the national lead for knife crime in Dagenham, east London, he called for “joined-up thinking” on the issue.
He said: “I describe myself as someone who’s got a soapbox. I’m a parent, that’s it. I’m no expert on youth crime, but I do know that we’re in a crisis and that we’ve got to stand up and do something and there has to be joined-up thinking.”
Elba’s appearance at the event was to support the Premier League Kicks programme, which provides free, weekly football sessions across the country for young people at risk of antisocial behaviour, including youth violence.
After meeting teenagers and coaches from the West Ham Foundation, which runs the local sessions in Dagenham, Elba joined community leaders from across the country involved in the programme, some of whom have been affected by knife crime or serious youth violence, to discuss the issue.
In the course of the discussion, the topic of trauma arose, particularly how it was a common experience among those involved in, or affected by, youth violence.
Elba said he had asked some of the teenagers whether the sessions helped young people “stay away from knife crime and violence”. They told him they did.
“There was a massive real impact of it and that sense of belonging was important in the understanding about trauma, dialogue and understanding. You never know what any of these kids are going through at home, what their environment is. But here feels like family.”
Last month, Elba fronted a documentary highlighting the issue of knife crime in the UK. Before its release, he called for kitchen knives to be sold only with rounded ends, and, last year, he urged the government to ban the sale of machetes and “zombie” knives.
Elba told the Guardian he had decided to host the documentary because he did not understand the issue “as much as I needed to”. He said: “It’s one thing saying: we’ve got to stop knife crimes, we’ve got to ban knives, but understanding why was really important to be effective in messaging.”
Last September, Elba participated in a summit on knife crime. He was joined by the prime minister, Keir Starmer; the home secretary, Yvette Cooper, and those who had lost loved ones to knife crime.
Elba said he was confident that the government would “pay attention” to the issue. “I’m hoping that the recent awareness that we’ve seen happen is enough of a driver to push them to do change. Needless to say, no – one wants to see any more needless or senseless deaths,” he said.
Stephen Clayman, the national lead for knife crime for the National Police Chiefs’ Council, said that grassroots initiatives such as the Premier League scheme could “make the biggest difference”.
“We’ve got to think about what young people would be attracted to,” he said. “Anything that could get attention of someone who is distracted by other things in their lives, gives them a route in and helps them make better life choices.”
He said such programmes needed investment to continue running. “Whether that’s government investment or private investment from other industries, it is fundamental that we don’t give up because this is where you make the biggest difference,” he said.
Idris Elba takes the stage at SXSW festival in London
Festival is bringing Texas to Shoreditch with a star-studded lineup of panellists and performers
Idris Elba, Tems, Katherine Ryan and Deepak Chopra are among the starry names confirmed for the European debut of South by Southwest festival in London this summer.
In an announcement shared on Tuesday (11 February), organisers said that the London instalment of the festival – known as SXSW – will see some of the world’s biggest talent from across music, film, tech and culture appear at its inaugural stint in Shoreditch, east London.
Conference headliners include DJ and actor Idris Elba, wellness guru Deepak Chopra, comedian Katherine Ryan, rapper and producer Wyclef Jean, electronic music pioneer Jean-Michel Jarre and celebrity fitness coach Joe Wicks.
Founded in 1987 in Austin, Texas, SXSW has begun expanding globally with organisers hoping the festival will represent a cultural touchpoint for the global creative community.
The festival first branched out from its Austin roots in 2023 with the launch of SXSW Sydney. For SXSW London, talent from the UK and Europe will take centre stage with a series of talks, music showcases and innovations in tech, gaming and screen. The London instalment marks the festival’s European debut.
The festival will explore the intersection between film, art and music, with presentations including feature films, shorts, music videos and a selection of immersive works.
The first UK film retrospective of the award-winning filmmaker Jenn Nkiru will be presented at the festival, as well as the London premiere of her latest work The Great North.
In terms of music, the SXSW London’s Music Festival has unveiled Nigerian Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Tems as its first headliner for a show on 5 June at London’s east London venue Troxy.
The festival will also include an immersive concept from Abbey Road Studios, involving live music performances and talks.
The organisers said: “Reflecting their core themes of music creativity, innovation and learning, this unique collaboration will highlight the continuing cultural relevance and innovative spirit of Abbey Road for festival delegates.”
Anna Bogutskaya, Head of Screen at SXSW London, told The Independent that the festival will celebrate and platform boundary-breaking storytellers in the industry.
“No one occupies the intersection of film, art and music better than Jenn Nkiru, whose vision I've admired for years. I’m excited she is trusting us to present a retrospective of her work so far,” said Bogutskaya.
Adem Holness, Head of Music at SXSW London, added: “One of the things I love most about London is that you can step out of any tube station and find yourself in a distinct community. So, that's exactly how I want our festival to feel – each of our venues will be space to experience underground music scenes from all over the world.”
Idris Elba Partners with Stellar Development Foundation Amidst Crypto’s Troubled Waters
British actor and filmmaker Idris Elba has reportedly been observing the crypto landscape closely.
Idris Elba is a British actor, filmmaker, and musician, widely recognized for his versatile roles in both television and film. Born on 6 September 1972 in London, England, Elba gained international fame for his portrayal of Stringer Bell in the critically acclaimed TV series “The Wire.” He further solidified his reputation with his role as DCI John Luther in the British crime drama “Luther,” for which he received multiple award nominations.
Elba has also appeared in blockbuster films such as “Thor,” “Pacific Rim,” and “Avengers: Infinity War,” showcasing his range as an actor. In addition to acting, he has ventured into directing, with his debut feature film “Yardie” released in 2018. Elba is also a DJ and a musician, performing under the name DJ Big Driis. Known for his charisma and talent, he has become a cultural icon, recently turning his attention to the potential of blockchain technology for social impact.
According to Wired, while many celebrities jumped on the crypto bandwagon during its boom, Elba remained cautious. Earlier this month, he partnered with the Stellar Development Foundation to explore the potential of blockchain technology for financial inclusion, especially in West Africa.
Wired’s article, which was published on September 27, says that in 2021, crypto businesses invested hundreds of millions of dollars to bring celebrities on board for endorsements. These celebrities, in turn, released their own lines of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) or even their own crypto coins. Elba, however, chose not to participate in what he saw as a “gold rush,” feeling uncomfortable with the idea of being used merely as a promotional tool.
The crypto industry has faced significant setbacks in the past 18 months, according to Wired. The collapse of the Terra Luna stablecoin, the failures of hedge fund Three Arrows Capital, crypto lender Celsius, and crypto exchange FTX have all contributed to a downturn. This period, often referred to as a “crypto winter,” has led to increased regulatory scrutiny and tarnished the reputation of remaining businesses.
Despite the industry’s challenges, Elba remains interested in the technology, states Wired. He is particularly intrigued by how crypto could address financial inclusion issues in West Africa, where less than half of the adult population has access to banking services. Elba sees crypto’s underlying blockchain technology as a means to remove financial barriers in emerging markets.
The Stellar Development Foundation (SDF) is a nonprofit organization established in 2014 to support the development and growth of the Stellar network, an open-source blockchain protocol. The foundation aims to foster financial inclusion and democratize access to financial services by leveraging Stellar’s blockchain technology. Unlike traditional financial systems, Stellar enables quick, low-cost cross-border transactions and has been designed to facilitate the issuance and exchange of digital assets, including cryptocurrencies and tokens.
The SDF provides technical guidance, grants, and other forms of support to businesses and developers who wish to build on the Stellar network. It also plays a crucial role in maintaining Stellar’s codebase and working with regulatory bodies to ensure compliance. Over the years, the foundation has formed partnerships with various financial institutions, tech companies, and nonprofits to broaden Stellar’s reach and impact. Its focus on real-world utility and financial inclusion differentiates it from other blockchain initiatives.
Wired says that Elba is collaborating with the Stellar Development Foundation. Initially starting as a paid brand ambassador, the relationship has apparently evolved into a more mutual business partnership. Elba appreciates Stellar’s focus on real-world utility rather than mere token promotion.
While the specifics of the partnership remain unclear, Wired suggests that the goal is to provide West Africans with an alternative means of financial transactions and money management. Elba likens the potential shift from traditional banking to crypto-based financial services in West Africa to the transition from physical mail to email.
Wired concludes by highlighting Elba’s cautious approach to wielding his influence in the crypto space. Unlike other celebrities who may have misused their influence, Elba aims to promote the idea of financial inclusion through crypto, rather than pushing a specific coin or token.
Disclaimer
The views and opinions expressed by the author, or any people mentioned in this article, are for informational purposes only, and they do not constitute financial, investment, or other advice. Investing in or trading cryptoassets comes with a risk of financial loss.
Source: Crypto Globe
