In a landmark event for cultural restitution, France has returned the Djidji Ayôkwé, a sacred talking drum, to Côte d’Ivoire, more than a century after it was taken during colonial rule. This significant gesture took place earlier this month when the drum was handed over to Ivorian officials in Paris, culminating in its arrival at Port Bouët Airport in Abidjan on 13 March 2026. The return underscores a growing recognition of the importance of repatriating cultural heritage to its rightful owners.
A Drum with Deep Cultural Significance
The Djidji Ayôkwé, a remarkable four-metre-long drum weighing 430 kilograms, is not merely an artefact; it is a vital symbol of the Ebrié people’s heritage. Traditionally used to convey messages across vast distances, the drum played a crucial role in announcing important events such as deaths and celebrations, as well as alerting communities to imminent dangers. Its confiscation by French authorities in 1916, following resistance from villagers against forced labour, has long been a point of contention and sorrow for the Ivorian people.
Aboussou Guy Mobio, the chief of the Adjamé-Bingerville community, expressed profound relief and honour upon the drum’s return. He articulated that the drum’s homecoming reconnects the community with their ancestors and restores a crucial piece of their cultural identity.
Celebrating a Historic Return
The return ceremony was marked by a vibrant display of traditional culture. As the crate containing the Djidji Ayôkwé was unloaded from the aircraft, a local cultural troupe performed the tchaman dance, celebrating the momentous occasion. Françoise Remarck, Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Culture and Francophonie, delivered an emotional address, thanking both Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara and French President Emmanuel Macron for their roles in facilitating the drum’s return. She described the event as a moment of justice and remembrance, emphasising the drum’s importance as a symbol of social cohesion and dialogue for the youth of today.
The return of the Djidji Ayôkwé is seen as a stepping stone towards the broader goal of cultural restitution. Remarck noted that this event sends a powerful message to younger generations about reclaiming their history.
Future Prospects and Continued Efforts
The drum is set to be permanently displayed at the Musée des Civilisations de Côte d’Ivoire, with plans for a dedicated ceremony anticipated in April. In preparation for this exhibition, UNESCO has committed $100,000 (£75,400) to assist with research and training at the museum, ensuring that the drum is preserved and appreciated within its cultural context.
The return of the Djidji Ayôkwé may also pave the way for further restitutions. Sylvie Memel Kassi, a prominent cultural advocate and former director of the museum, revealed that discussions are underway regarding eight other artefacts currently held in France. This ongoing dialogue reflects a growing commitment to addressing historical injustices related to cultural heritage.
Why it Matters
The restitution of the Djidji Ayôkwé is not merely a matter of returning a physical object; it represents a vital process of healing and reconciliation for Côte d’Ivoire. As nations grapple with their colonial pasts, the act of repatriating cultural artefacts fosters a deeper understanding of shared histories and promotes dialogue between nations. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of cultural identity, heritage, and the enduring connection between communities and their ancestral legacies.
