A significant cultural milestone has been reached as France has officially returned the Djidji Ayôkwé, a sacred talking drum, to Côte d’Ivoire. This artefact, which has been held in France for over a century, embodies the historical and cultural legacy of the Ivorian people. The drum’s return marks a momentous step in the ongoing dialogue surrounding the restitution of colonial artefacts to their countries of origin.
A Historic Repatriation
On 13 March 2026, the Djidji Ayôkwé arrived at Port Bouët Airport in Abidjan, where it was welcomed with great ceremony. This symbolic return follows its confiscation by French colonial officials in 1916 during a period of resistance against forced labour. The drum, which weighs 430 kg and measures four metres in length, holds deep cultural and political significance for the Ebrié people, who regard it as a vital instrument of communication and resistance.
Upon its arrival, local dignitaries and community members gathered to celebrate the return of the drum. Aboussou Guy Mobio, the chief of the Adjamé-Bingerville community, expressed profound joy and relief at the occasion, 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.” His remarks underscore the drum’s role as a bridge to the ancestors and a symbol of cultural identity.
The Drum’s Cultural Significance
The Djidji Ayôkwé is not merely a musical instrument; it is a historical artefact that played a crucial role in the communication network of the Ebrié people, used to relay messages across vast distances. Its ability to mimic human speech allowed it to convey important announcements, from celebrations to warnings of impending danger. The drum’s seizure in 1916 came after local villagers resisted colonial exploitation, highlighting the drum’s intertwined history with the struggle for autonomy and cultural preservation.
French President Emmanuel Macron had previously pledged to return the drum during a visit to Côte d’Ivoire in 2021. However, the actual process involved extensive discussions and legislative approval in France, reflecting the complexities of cultural repatriation. Françoise Remarck, Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Culture and Francophonie, articulated the emotional weight of the event, calling it a “moment of justice and remembrance.”
A New Chapter for Cultural Heritage
The return of the Djidji Ayôkwé is just the beginning of a broader conversation about the restitution of cultural artefacts taken during colonial times. The Ivorian Minister emphasised that this event serves as a beacon for the youth of Côte d’Ivoire, inspiring them to reclaim their history and acknowledge their cultural heritage. The drum is set to be permanently displayed at the Musée des Civilisations de Côte d’Ivoire, with preparations underway for an exhibition funded by UNESCO.
Sylvie Memel Kassi, a prominent figure in the cultural sector, highlighted that discussions are ongoing regarding the return of additional artefacts. “We are studying eight other objects,” she noted, indicating a potential shift in how former colonial powers approach cultural heritage and restitution.
Why it Matters
The return of the Djidji Ayôkwé is a pivotal moment not only for Côte d’Ivoire but for the global movement advocating for the restitution of cultural artefacts to their rightful owners. As nations grapple with the legacies of colonialism, such gestures of goodwill and acknowledgment can foster reconciliation and understanding. This event serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural heritage in shaping national identity and collective memory, encouraging other countries to reflect on their historical responsibilities and take steps towards addressing past injustices.
