In a momentous occasion for cultural heritage and post-colonial reconciliation, Côte d’Ivoire has welcomed the return of the Djidji Ayôkwé, a sacred talking drum that was looted by French colonial authorities over a century ago. The drum, which serves as a significant emblem of the Ebrié people’s history and heritage, arrived at Port Bouët airport in Abidjan on Friday morning, following its handover to Ivorian officials in Paris earlier this month.
A Symbol of Resilience and Heritage
The Djidji Ayôkwé, measuring an impressive four metres and weighing 430 kilograms, has long been more than just an artefact; it is a vital piece of the cultural fabric of the Ebrié community, historically used to communicate important messages across vast distances. The drum’s design allows it to mimic human speech, making it an essential tool for announcing events, celebrations, and even warnings of impending danger.
Its confiscation in 1916 came after local resistance to colonial rule, marking a painful chapter in the history of Côte d’Ivoire. “After a long stay away from this land, it is returning to its own people,” remarked Aboussou Guy Mobio, chief of the Adjamé-Bingerville community. “This is the missing piece of the puzzle that is returning today.” For many, the drum represents a vital connection to ancestors and cultural identity.
A Historic Ceremony of Return
The restitution ceremony was attended by numerous dignitaries, including Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Culture and Francophonie, Françoise Remarck, who expressed a profound sense of justice at the event. “We are indeed experiencing a moment of justice and remembrance,” she stated. The return of the Djidji Ayôkwé is perceived not only as a reclamation of cultural property but as a step towards healing and reconciliation for the Ivorian people.
President Emmanuel Macron of France had pledged to return the drum as part of a broader commitment to address the legacy of colonialism. However, the process was not without its challenges, requiring four years of negotiations and the approval of the French parliament before the return could be formalised.
Future Plans and Continued Restitution Efforts
The drum is expected to be permanently displayed at the Musée des Civilisations de Côte d’Ivoire, with a special ceremony planned for April to mark its official installation. To support this initiative, UNESCO has contributed $100,000 for research and training at the museum, reflecting a growing international recognition of the importance of cultural restitution.
Sylvie Memel Kassi, a former director of the museum and founder of the TAPA Foundation for Arts and Culture, highlighted that the return of the Djidji Ayôkwé could pave the way for future restitutions. “We are studying eight other objects,” she noted, indicating an ongoing dialogue between Ivorian and French authorities regarding the repatriation of more cultural artefacts.
Why it Matters
The return of the Djidji Ayôkwé is a landmark event that transcends mere ceremonial significance. It marks an important step in addressing the historical grievances of colonised nations and acknowledges the need for cultural restitution in a global context. For Côte d’Ivoire, this moment serves as a catalyst for broader discussions on identity, heritage, and the imperative of reclaiming cultural narratives that have long been suppressed. The drum’s arrival not only reconnects the Ivorian people with their past but also encourages a new generation to engage with their history and embrace their cultural legacy.
