A significant milestone in cultural reconciliation has been marked by the return of the Djidji Ayôkwé, a sacred talking drum, to Côte d’Ivoire. This artefact, which was taken by French colonial authorities over a century ago, was officially handed back earlier this month during a ceremony held at the Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac Museum in Paris. It arrived at Abidjan’s Félix Houphouët-Boigny International Airport on 13 March, where it was greeted with traditional celebrations and heartfelt speeches.
Symbol of Heritage and Resistance
The Djidji Ayôkwé, an impressive four-metre drum weighing 430 kg, holds deep cultural significance for the Ebrié people of Côte d’Ivoire. Historically, this instrument served as a vital means of communication, relaying messages over long distances to announce significant events such as deaths, celebrations, and even impending dangers. Its confiscation in 1916 followed a local uprising against forced labour on infrastructure projects, a stark reminder of the colonial past that continues to resonate in contemporary discourse.
Aboussou Guy Mobio, chief of the Adjamé-Bingerville community, expressed profound relief and honour at the drum’s return, stating, “After a long stay away from this land, it is returning to its own people… It is a missing piece of the puzzle that is returning today.” The return of the Djidji Ayôkwé is not merely about reclaiming an artefact; it represents a reconnection with ancestral heritage for the Ivorian people.
A Long Journey to Restitution
French President Emmanuel Macron had pledged to facilitate the return of the drum back in 2021. However, the process involved extensive discussions and lobbying, ultimately culminating in the French parliament’s ratification of the decision, which took four years. Françoise Remarck, Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Culture and Francophonie, hailed the event as a “moment of justice and remembrance,” thanking both leaders for their roles in this historic occasion.
During the handover ceremony, she addressed the drum directly, calling its return a message of hope for the youth of Côte d’Ivoire, symbolising social cohesion and dialogue. This resonates with a broader movement within Africa to reclaim cultural artefacts that were taken during colonial rule.
Future Exhibitions and Cultural Renaissance
The ceremonial arrival of the Djidji Ayôkwé was marked by traditional performances, including the vibrant tchaman dance, illustrating the rich cultural tapestry of the region. Plans are underway for the drum to be permanently displayed at the Musée des Civilisations de Côte d’Ivoire, with an inaugural exhibition expected next month. UNESCO has pledged $100,000 (£75,400) to aid in the research and training necessary for the museum to showcase the drum and its significance effectively.
Sylvie Memel Kassi, a former director of the museum and founder of the TAPA Foundation for Arts and Culture, noted that the drum’s return could set a precedent for further restitution efforts. “We are studying eight other objects,” she revealed, indicating ongoing discussions between Ivorian and French authorities regarding the return of more cultural items.
Why it Matters
The return of the Djidji Ayôkwé is emblematic of a larger movement towards addressing historical injustices and restoring cultural heritage to its rightful owners. As countries grapple with their colonial legacies, such acts of restitution not only honour the past but also provide a pathway to healing and reconciliation. The return of this sacred drum serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of cultural identity and the need for nations to confront their histories while fostering dialogue and understanding in a rapidly changing world.
