In a momentous cultural restoration, Côte d’Ivoire has welcomed back the Djidji Ayôkwé, a sacred talking drum looted by French colonial forces over a century ago. This significant artefact arrived at Félix Houphouët-Boigny Airport in Abidjan early on 13 March, symbolising a renewed commitment to acknowledge historical injustices and foster cultural heritage. The drum had been formally transferred to Ivorian authorities in Paris earlier this month, marking a historic step in the ongoing dialogue around the restitution of cultural property.
A Legacy of Resistance
The Djidji Ayôkwé is not merely an artefact; it embodies the cultural and political legacy of the Ebrié people, who inhabit the region around Abidjan. Measuring four metres in length and weighing 430 kilograms, this hourglass-shaped drum was traditionally used to convey messages across vast distances, announcing important community events such as deaths and celebrations, or alerting residents to impending dangers. Its confiscation by colonial authorities in 1916 followed the Ebrié community’s resistance to forced labour, turning the drum into a powerful symbol of resilience and cultural identity.
Aboussou Guy Mobio, chief of the Adjamé-Bingerville community, expressed profound emotions during the drum’s arrival, stating, “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.” The return of the Djidji Ayôkwé is seen not only as a physical restitution but also as a spiritual reconnection with the ancestors who revered this sacred instrument.
The Long Road to Repatriation
The journey to repatriation has been a lengthy and complex process. French President Emmanuel Macron had pledged to return the drum in 2021, but it took four years of negotiations and legislative approval for this promise to materialise. “I feel deep emotion. We are indeed experiencing a moment of justice and remembrance,” stated Françoise Remarck, Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Culture and Francophonie, during the official ceremony. She acknowledged the collaborative efforts of President Alassane Ouattara and Macron in making this day possible, framing it as a pivotal moment in the quest for cultural restitution.
As the drum was unloaded from the aircraft, traditional dancers celebrated its arrival with vibrant performances, encapsulating the joy and significance of the occasion. Plans are underway for a permanent exhibition at the Musée des Civilisations de Côte d’Ivoire, with UNESCO contributing $100,000 to support research and training initiatives in preparation for this installation.
Future Prospects for Cultural Restitution
The return of the Djidji Ayôkwé paves the way for broader discussions on the repatriation of other artefacts taken during colonial times. Sylvie Memel Kassi, a former director of the museum and founder of the TAPA Foundation for Arts and Culture, revealed that authorities are currently examining eight additional objects for potential restitution. “We are studying eight other objects,” she noted, signalling a growing momentum in the movement for cultural reclamation.
The drum’s return not only reinforces Côte d’Ivoire’s cultural heritage but also highlights the ongoing global conversation regarding the restitution of artefacts to their countries of origin. It is a call to action for nations worldwide to address historical injustices and work towards healing through cultural recognition.
Why it Matters
The repatriation of the Djidji Ayôkwé represents a critical juncture in the relationship between former colonial powers and their former colonies. It is a testament to the enduring impact of colonialism and the importance of rectifying historical wrongs. This moment not only revitalises cultural identity for the Ivorian people but also inspires similar movements globally, galvanising efforts toward healing, reconciliation, and the celebration of rich cultural legacies that have long been overshadowed. The return of this sacred drum is a powerful reminder of the need to honour and restore the cultural narratives that have been displaced, fostering a future built on respect and understanding.
