In a significant act of cultural restitution, France has returned the Djidji Ayôkwé, a sacred talking drum looted from Côte d’Ivoire over a century ago. The drum, which was seized by French colonial authorities in 1916, was officially handed over to Ivorian representatives this month and arrived at Félix Houphouët-Boigny Airport in Abidjan on 13 March 2026, marking a notable milestone in the ongoing dialogue about colonial artefacts.
A Symbolic Return
The Djidji Ayôkwé, an hourglass-shaped drum measuring four metres and weighing 430 kilograms, is emblematic of the Ebrié people’s rich heritage. Traditionally used to convey messages across long distances, this instrument played a crucial role in community communication, marking significant events such as deaths and celebrations. In the face of colonial oppression, it became a symbol of resistance for the local population, making its return all the more poignant.
Aboussou Guy Mobio, chief of the Adjamé-Bingerville community, expressed the collective sentiment surrounding the drum’s return: “After a long stay away from this land, it is returning to its own people and it is an honour for us and a relief to welcome it. This is the missing piece of the puzzle that is returning today.” His words encapsulate the emotional resonance of the drum, seen as a bridge connecting contemporary Ivoirians with their ancestors.
The Journey Back
French President Emmanuel Macron had promised the repatriation of the Djidji Ayôkwé during his term, but it took four years of negotiations before the French parliament ratified the decision. Cultural Minister Françoise Remarck highlighted the significance of this moment during the restitution ceremony, stating, “We are indeed experiencing a moment of justice and remembrance.” She underscored the drum’s role as a symbol of social cohesion and a message for the youth of Côte d’Ivoire, encouraging them to reclaim their history.
The drum’s journey back to its homeland was celebrated with traditional performances, including the lively tchaman dance, as it was transported from the aircraft. This festive atmosphere was a testament to the cultural pride and joy surrounding the occasion. The drum will ultimately be housed at the Musée des Civilisations de Côte d’Ivoire, with preparations for a public exhibition already underway, supported by a $100,000 donation from UNESCO for research and training.
Looking Ahead
The return of the Djidji Ayôkwé is seen as a pivotal moment that could pave the way for further discussions about the restitution of other artefacts taken during the colonial era. Sylvie Memel Kassi, a former director of the museum and founder of the TAPA Foundation for Arts and Culture, noted that discussions are already in progress regarding eight other significant items. This indicates a growing momentum in the movement for repatriation, signalling a shift in how former colonial powers and their former colonies engage with their shared histories.
Why it Matters
The restitution of the Djidji Ayôkwé is not merely a ceremonial return of an artefact; it represents a broader movement towards acknowledging and rectifying the injustices of colonialism. Such acts of repatriation contribute to healing historical wounds, fostering dialogue, and promoting cultural pride within communities that have long been deprived of their heritage. As nations confront their pasts, the return of cultural treasures like the Djidji Ayôkwé becomes a powerful statement of justice and reconciliation, reinforcing the importance of cultural heritage in shaping identity and history in the modern world.
