Idris Elba has expressed that the initial announcement about the plans for Sherbro Island was made prematurely. He clarified that it was just an announcement, not the start of the actual construction. Reflecting on the situation, Elba stated that he would have waited to make any announcements until partnerships were solidified. He shared these thoughts during an interview on Africa Young Voices Wake Up Salone program.
Elba, along with his partner Siaka Stevens, formed the Sherbro Alliance partners and infrastructure development concept, to create Africa’s first dynamic city on Sherbro Island. Elba mentioned that although progress has been slow and faced challenges, both the government and the people of Sherbro Island and most of Sierra Leone are supportive of the project and can see the progress being made. Elba remains enthusiastic about the project, recognizing that such endeavours take time and effort.
Elba emphasized the importance of creating lasting change that will benefit Sierra Leone for generations to come. He believes that integrating technology is crucial, especially in a developing nation, and highlighted their partnership with Octopus to address energy problems. Elba also stressed the significance of this project for Sierra Leoneans, stating that tourism should not only be for international visitors but that Sierra Leoneans should also be able to explore and enjoy their own country.
During the interview, the CEO of Octopus Energy assured the people of Sherbro Island that their company would provide clean and sustainable energy to the area. Siaka Stevens added that several companies would be coming to Sierra Leone to conduct feasibility studies, but he couldn’t provide a specific timeline for the Sherbro Island city project. However, he did mention that progress would occur, with consultants arriving on the island.
The Sherbro Alliance partners, represented by Idris Elba and Siaka Stevens, signed a memorandum of understanding with the Government of Sierra Leone on September 30, 2019, to develop Bonthe Island.
