In a landmark event for cultural restitution, Côte d’Ivoire has welcomed back the Djidji Ayôkwé, a sacred talking drum that was taken by French colonial authorities more than a hundred years ago. The drum, which embodies the historical and spiritual legacy of the Ebrié people, was officially returned during a ceremony in Abidjan on March 13, 2026, marking a significant step in the ongoing dialogue about colonial-era artefacts and their rightful place in their countries of origin.
A Historic Repatriation
The Djidji Ayôkwé was confiscated in 1916, a time when colonial powers sought to suppress local cultures and traditions. The drum arrived at Félix Houphouët-Boigny Airport in Port Bouët at 8.45 am, after being handed over to Ivorian officials in Paris earlier this month. It had previously been housed in the Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac Museum, a site known for its extensive collection of non-European artefacts.
Aboussou Guy Mobio, the chief of the Adjamé-Bingerville community, expressed profound relief and honour at the drum’s return. “After a long stay away from this land, it is returning to its own people… This is the missing piece of the puzzle that is returning today,” he stated, highlighting the cultural significance of the drum as a link to the ancestors of the Ivorian people.
Cultural Significance of the Djidji Ayôkwé
The Djidji Ayôkwé is not merely an instrument; it is a powerful symbol of resistance and communication for the Ebrié people. Standing at four metres tall and weighing 430 kilograms, this hourglass-shaped talking drum has historically been used to convey messages across vast distances, signalling important events such as deaths or community celebrations, and even warning of impending dangers. Its confiscation followed a village’s resistance to forced labour imposed by colonial authorities, illustrating the drum’s deep-rooted connection to Ivorian identity and heritage.
The return of the Djidji Ayôkwé has been lauded by Ivorian officials as a moment of justice. Françoise Remarck, Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Culture and Francophonie, expressed her emotions during the ceremony, labelling the day as “historic”. She acknowledged the collaborative effort between the Ivorian government and French President Emmanuel Macron, who had pledged to return the drum back in 2021. “Djidji Ayôkwé, today your return is a message for our youth who have chosen to reclaim their history,” she remarked, underlining the drum’s role in fostering dialogue and social cohesion within communities.
Looking Ahead: Future Restitution Efforts
The celebration of the drum’s return is expected to pave the way for further discussions on the restitution of Ivorian artefacts. Sylvie Memel Kassi, a former director of the Musée des Civilisations de Côte d’Ivoire and founder of the TAPA Foundation for Arts and Culture, revealed that there are ongoing studies of eight other objects currently held in France. This momentum suggests a growing recognition of the need to address historical injustices and return cultural heritage to its rightful owners.
In anticipation of the drum’s permanent installation at the Musée des Civilisations de Côte d’Ivoire, set to occur in April, UNESCO has provided substantial funding for research and training at the museum, further solidifying the importance of this cultural landmark.
Why it Matters
The return of the Djidji Ayôkwé drum is emblematic of a broader movement towards acknowledging and rectifying the impacts of colonialism. As nations grapple with their histories, the restitution of cultural artefacts serves not only to restore lost heritage but also to empower communities in reclaiming their narratives. This event is not just a moment of pride for Côte d’Ivoire; it resonates globally, encouraging other nations to confront their colonial pasts and engage in similar acts of reparation. As Côte d’Ivoire embraces this significant cultural milestone, it sends a powerful message about the importance of heritage in shaping identity and fostering unity in a post-colonial world.
