France Returns Looted Drum to Ivory Coast
France has returned a sacred 'talking drum' to Ivory Coast, a significant step in addressing colonial-era looting and cultural restitution. The drum, known as Djidji Ayôkwé, was looted by French colonial authorities in 1916 and holds immense cultural and historical importance to the Ivorian people.
The return of the Djidji Ayôkwé drum is part of a broader effort since 2017 to return cultural artifacts to African countries. The drum was handed over to Ivorian officials in Paris and flown to Abidjan, marking a notable return of an artifact to a former French colony. After a period of acclimatization, the drum will be displayed to the public in April at the Museum of Civilizations in Abidjan. This event is celebrated in Ivory Coast, particularly in Abidjan, the economic capital, and is seen as a significant political, legal, and diplomatic achievement following Ivory Coast's official request for its restitution in 2019.
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Highlights
First Official Return
The Djidji Ayôkwé drum is the first artifact officially returned by France to Côte d’Ivoire.
Historical Significance
The drum's return is celebrated as a historic moment in Abidjan, marking a significant step in addressing colonial-era looting.
Public Display
After acclimatization, the drum will be displayed to the public in April at the Museum of Civilizations in Abidjan.
Long Negotiation Process
The return follows a long negotiation process, culminating in Ivory Coast's official request for restitution in 2019.
Cultural Importance
The drum is significant to Ivorian culture and history, and its return is part of a broader effort to return cultural artifacts to African countries.