In a momentous act of cultural restitution, France has returned the Djidji Ayôkwé, a sacred talking drum looted from Côte d’Ivoire over a century ago. The drum, which holds profound significance for the Ebrié people, was officially handed over to Ivorian officials in Paris earlier this month and subsequently arrived in Abidjan on 13 March 2026. This event is seen as a pivotal step in addressing historical injustices and fostering cultural reconciliation between France and its former colony.
A Symbol of Resistance and Communication
The Djidji Ayôkwé, an hourglass-shaped talking drum measuring four metres and weighing 430 kilograms, served as a vital means of communication among the Ebrié people. Traditionally, it mimicked human speech, enabling villagers to relay important messages across vast distances before and during the colonial era. It played a crucial role in announcing both celebrations and tragedies, as well as alerting communities to impending dangers.
Colonial authorities seized the drum in 1916 after local villagers resisted forced labour, confiscating it as a punitive measure. The drum’s return is not just an act of restitution but a reconnection with the cultural heritage and ancestral lineage of the Ivorian people.
A Ceremony of Emotion and Significance
The ceremony marking the drum’s arrival in Côte d’Ivoire was filled with emotion. Aboussou Guy Mobio, chief of the Adjamé-Bingerville community, expressed the significance of the drum’s return, stating, “After a long absence, it is returning to its rightful people.” He highlighted the drum as a vital link to their ancestors and a piece of their cultural identity.
Françoise Remarck, Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Culture and Francophonie, echoed these sentiments during her speech, describing the event as a moment of justice and remembrance. She emphasised the drum’s role in inspiring youth to reclaim their history, stating, “Djidji Ayôkwé, today your return is a message for our youth… a symbol of social cohesion, peace and dialogue.”
Future of Cultural Repatriation
This restitution is part of a broader movement towards the return of artefacts taken during colonial times. Following President Emmanuel Macron’s commitment in 2021 to facilitate the repatriation of significant cultural items, the transfer of the Djidji Ayôkwé has ignited discussions about the return of other looted artefacts. Sylvie Memel Kassi, a prominent cultural figure in Côte d’Ivoire, revealed that authorities are currently examining the potential restitution of eight additional items.
The drum will soon be permanently displayed at the Musée des Civilisations de Côte d’Ivoire, with preparations underway for its exhibition. UNESCO has also contributed $100,000 (£75,400) to support research and training at the museum, reinforcing the international community’s commitment to cultural heritage preservation.
Why it Matters
The return of the Djidji Ayôkwé resonates far beyond the confines of a ceremonial event; it represents a significant step towards healing historical wounds resulting from colonial exploitation. This act of restitution not only restores a vital cultural artefact to its rightful home but also signals a growing recognition of the need for accountability and reconciliation in international relations. As countries grapple with their colonial pasts, the Djidji Ayôkwé serves as a beacon of hope for other nations seeking to reclaim their cultural heritage and reaffirm their identities.
