On October 7, 2024, Dr. Idris Akuna Elba  OBE, acclaimed actor and head of the Akuna Group, was honored with the prestigious Bridge Builders Award by the Diaspora African Forum (DAF). The award ceremony took place during the Africa Cinema Summit at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra. 

The Bridge Builders Award is presented to individuals who have made significant contributions toward bridging the gap between Africa and the African Diaspora. Dr. Elba, known for his roles in films such as American Gangster, Thor, and Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, was recognized not only for his artistic achievements but also for his efforts in strengthening connections between the continent and its diaspora through his work with the Akuna Group. 

Through the Akuna Group, Dr. Elba has led initiatives focused on leveraging strategic investments in the African creative industries, agriculture, and infrastructure. His work has been instrumental in fostering collaborations that drive innovation and economic growth across Africa. 

Dr. Elba joins a distinguished list of previous honorees, including Stevie Wonder, former Ghanaian President John Agyekum Kufuor, and former Presidents Joyce Banda of Malawi and Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia. 

H.E. Erieka Bennett, founder and head of mission for the Diaspora African Forum, who presented the award, praised Dr. Elba for being an inspiration to the African Diaspora and for demonstrating the endless possibilities available to Africans around the world. 

About the Diaspora African Forum  

The Diaspora African Forum (DAF) is a non-profit organization endorsed by the African Union (AU) and was opened on July 7, 2001, by H.E. President J.A. Kufuor. DAF was the first and remains the only African Diaspora organization of its kind. Its mission is to support the African Union by representing the African Diaspora and ensuring their involvement in Africa’s development. For over 20 years, DAF has worked to bridge the gap between Africa and its global diaspora. 

 

STORY BY: EUNICE ADJEI  

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