Idris Elba backs renewable eco-city plan for Sherbro Island
Sherbro Island, off the coast of Sierra Leone, is the focus of an ambitious development project backed by Idris Elba and Sabrina Elba, aiming to combine renewable energy, infrastructure and local economic growth in a single long-term initiative.
Home to around 40,000 people, the island has limited access to electricity, refrigeration and reliable internet. Fishing and farming sustain much of the population, but constraints in storage, transport and equipment have restricted wider economic development. At the same time, Sherbro has extensive natural assets, including fresh water, coastal land and a climate suited to renewable energy.
More reporting from EyeOnLondon
Policy, science and global developments shaping London’s wider world.
The Elbas’ involvement builds on their wider work with the International Fund for Agricultural Development, where they have supported agricultural programmes across Africa. Their foundation has focused on improving farming capacity, including training, cooperative structures and access to credit for crops such as cocoa and cashew.
The project has since expanded beyond agriculture into infrastructure. A three-year initiative, known as the Hope Power Project, aims to bring electricity and connectivity across the island using a mix of solar and wind energy. UK-based Octopus Energy is involved in developing renewable systems, while ServiceNow is supporting digital and infrastructure elements.
The long-term ambition is to create a self-sustaining eco-city model that integrates energy, housing and local enterprise. Supporters argue the approach moves away from traditional aid-led development, instead focusing on investment, skills and local capacity.
For the Elbas, the project reflects a broader aim to change how African development is framed, shifting the focus from external assistance to long-term economic participation. Whether Sherbro Island can deliver on that ambition will depend on how effectively infrastructure, governance and local engagement develop over time.
For more reporting on London and the decisions shaping the wider world, follow EyeOnLondon.
Follow us on:
Subscribe to our YouTube channel for the latest videos and updates!
We value your thoughts! Share your feedback and help us make EyeOnLondon even better!
