In a significant cultural milestone, Côte d’Ivoire has welcomed back the Djidji Ayôkwé, a sacred talking drum looted by French colonial forces over a century ago. The drum was officially returned during a ceremony at Port Bouët Airport in Abidjan, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing dialogue about cultural restitution between France and its former colonies.
Historical Context of the Djidji Ayôkwé
The Djidji Ayôkwé, a four-metre tall talking drum weighing 430 kilograms, is revered by the Ebrié people, who inhabit the region surrounding Abidjan. This artefact served not only as a musical instrument but also as a vital communication tool, conveying messages over great distances. Historically, it played a crucial role in transmitting news of significant events such as deaths or celebrations, as well as warnings of impending dangers.
The drum was seized by French colonial authorities in 1916, following a local uprising against forced labour practices. Its return is seen as more than a mere act of restitution; it represents a reclamation of cultural identity and ancestral connections for the Ivorian people.
A Long-Awaited Homecoming
The drum’s journey back to Côte d’Ivoire began with a commitment made by French President Emmanuel Macron in 2021, but it took nearly four years of negotiations and legal approvals before the decision was finalised. On March 13, 2026, Françoise Remarck, Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Culture and Francophonie, expressed her gratitude during the restitution ceremony, describing the day as one of “justice and remembrance.”
Remarck’s poignant address included a message directed at the youth of Côte d’Ivoire, encouraging them to embrace their history and heritage. She stated, “Djidji Ayôkwé, today your return is a message for our youth who have chosen to reclaim their history… a symbol of social cohesion, peace and dialogue.”
Cultural Significance and Future Prospects
As the crate containing the Djidji Ayôkwé was unloaded from the aircraft, traditional dancers celebrated the occasion with a vibrant tchaman dance, signifying the importance of the drum in Ivorian culture. Plans are underway for a formal exhibition at the Musée des Civilisations de Côte d’Ivoire, expected to take place in April, with support from UNESCO, which has allocated $100,000 for the project.
Sylvie Memel Kassi, a prominent figure in the arts and culture sector, highlighted the drum’s return as a catalyst for further restitution efforts. “We are studying eight other objects,” she noted, emphasising the potential for ongoing dialogue between Ivorian and French authorities.
Why it Matters
The return of the Djidji Ayôkwé is a landmark event in the broader context of cultural restitution, underscoring the importance of acknowledging historical injustices. This event not only enriches the cultural landscape of Côte d’Ivoire but also strengthens ties between France and its former colonies, fostering a renewed sense of identity and ownership. As nations grapple with their colonial pasts, such gestures of goodwill may pave the way for deeper understanding and collaboration in the future.
