In a momentous act of cultural restitution, France has returned the Djidji Ayôkwé, a sacred talking drum looted over a century ago, to Côte d’Ivoire. The drum, which was seized by French colonial authorities in 1916, was formally handed over to Ivorian representatives earlier this month and arrived in Abidjan on March 13, 2026. This return marks a significant milestone in the ongoing dialogue between former colonies and their colonial powers regarding the repatriation of cultural artefacts.
A Symbol of Resilience and Heritage
The Djidji Ayôkwé is not merely an instrument; it embodies the rich cultural and political heritage of the Ebrié people, who inhabit the region around Abidjan. Measuring four metres in length and weighing 430 kilograms, the drum served as a crucial means of communication for the community, conveying messages over long distances to announce important events or warn of impending danger. Its confiscation followed a local uprising against forced labour during the colonial era, highlighting its significance as a symbol of resistance.
Aboussou Guy Mobio, chief of the Adjamé-Bingerville community, expressed profound relief at 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,” he stated. Mobio emphasised that the drum’s arrival signifies a reconnection with ancestors and cultural identity, making it a pivotal moment for the community.
A Long Journey to Repatriation
The journey to reclaim the Djidji Ayôkwé has been lengthy and complex. French President Emmanuel Macron pledged to facilitate its return in 2021, yet it took four years of negotiations and advocacy for the French parliament to officially sanction the decision. During the restitution ceremony at Félix Houphouët-Boigny Airport, Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Culture and Francophonie, Françoise Remarck, remarked on the significance of the event. “We are indeed experiencing a moment of justice and remembrance,” she stated, thanking both President Alassane Ouattara and Macron for their roles in this historic occasion.
As the drum was unloaded, a cultural troupe celebrated the moment with traditional dance, underscoring the communal joy of this significant cultural event. The drum is set to be permanently displayed at the Musée des Civilisations de Côte d’Ivoire, with a formal installation ceremony expected in April.
Future of Cultural Restitution
The return of the Djidji Ayôkwé has sparked renewed interest in the restitution of other cultural artefacts. Sylvie Memel Kassi, a former director of the museum and founder of the TAPA Foundation for Arts and Culture, revealed that discussions are ongoing concerning the return of eight additional items currently held in France. This growing momentum suggests a shift in the relationship between France and its former colonies, with increasing recognition of the importance of cultural heritage.
In addition to the drum’s return, UNESCO has contributed $100,000 (£75,400) to support research and training at the museum, further highlighting the international community’s interest in preserving and celebrating cultural legacies.
Why it Matters
The restitution of the Djidji Ayôkwé is more than a mere return of an artefact; it represents a powerful statement about the importance of acknowledging historical injustices and reclaiming cultural identity. As nations grapple with their colonial pasts, this event serves as a reminder of the need for dialogue, reconciliation, and respect for heritage. The drum’s return not only reconnects the Ebrié people with their history but also sets a precedent for future restitutions, fostering a deeper understanding of the cultural narratives that shape our world today.
