When it comes to france returns sacred talking drum looted from côte d’ivoire over 100 years ago, a significant moment in cultural restitution unfolded on Friday as Côte d'Ivoire welcomed back the Djidji Ayôkwé, a sacred talking drum that had been looted by French colonial authorities over a century ago. The drum, which landed at 8:45 a.m. at Port Bouët Airport near Abidjan, symbolizes a poignant connection to the nation's heritage and history. This drum, seized in 1916, was officially handed over to Ivorian officials in Paris earlier this month after being removed from the Quai Branly - Jacques Chirac Museum.
Understanding France Returns Sacred Talking Drum Looted From Côte D’Ivoire Over 100 Years Ago
The Djidji Ayôkwé is more than just an artifact; it's a vital cultural symbol for the Ebrié people, the ethnic group that inhabits the region surrounding Abidjan. Weighing in at 430 kg and measuring four meters in length, this hourglass-shaped talking drum was traditionally utilized to convey messages over long distances, announcing events such as deaths and celebrations or even alerting communities to impending dangers. The drum's confiscation came after local villagers protested against forced labor imposed by colonial authorities; their acts of resistance ultimately led to the drum being taken to France. Originally reported by The Guardian.
Aboussou Guy Mobio, the chief of the Adjamé-Bingerville community, expressed profound sentiments about the drum's return, stating, "After a long stay away from this land, it is returning to its own people and it is an honour for us and a relief to welcome it. This is the missing piece of the puzzle that is returning today.. Receiving this sacred instrument is a relief, but it is also another form of connection with our ancestors who were very close to this instrument." His words encapsulate the emotional weight of the drum's return.
A Historic Hand-off
The process leading up to the drum's return involved extensive discussions and lobbying, initiated after French President Emmanuel Macron's promise in 2021 to return the artifact. It took four years for the French parliament to ratify the decision, culminating in the drum's formal handover in Paris. On Friday, Côte d'Ivoire's Minister of Culture and Francophonie, Françoise Remarck, marked the occasion by saying, "I feel deep emotion. We are indeed experiencing a moment of justice and remembrance." She described the return as a historic day and expressed her gratitude to both President Alassane Ouattara and Macron.
In her heartfelt address, Remarck spoke directly to the drum, saying, "Djidji Ayôkwé, today your return is a message for our youth who have chosen to reclaim their history, and for the communities.. a symbol of social cohesion, peace and dialogue.. 13 March is just one step." The moment was celebrated with traditional dances, highlighting the cultural significance of the event.
Future Exhibitions and Cultural Investments
As the wooden crate containing the Djidji Ayôkwé was rolled from the aircraft, a cultural troupe performed the traditional tchaman dance, celebrating this momentous occasion. Plans are in place for the drum to be permanently installed at the Musée des Civilisations de Côte d'Ivoire in the Plateau administrative district. A formal ceremony for its installation is anticipated to take place in April.
In preparation for the exhibition, UNESCO has pledged $100,000 through its Abidjan office to support research and training efforts at the museum. Sylvie Memel Kassi, a former director of the museum and founder of the TAPA Foundation for Arts and Culture, noted the drum's return as a catalyst for future restitutions of cultural artifacts. She revealed that discussions are currently underway regarding eight other Ivorian objects, indicating a broader movement toward reclaiming heritage.
A Broader Movement for Restitution
The return of the Djidji Ayôkwé is not an isolated incident but part of a growing trend among former colonial powers to return artifacts taken during colonial rule. This trend is reshaping the narrative around cultural heritage and ownership, allowing nations like Côte d'Ivoire to reconnect with their past and empower future generations. The drum's return is a testament to the enduring connection between the Ivorian people and their cultural symbols.
As Côte d'Ivoire embraces this sacred artifact, it also reflects a collective yearning to reclaim lost history and foster unity among its people. The Djidji Ayôkwé stands as a powerful reminder of resilience and cultural pride, paving the way for ongoing dialogues about restitution and cultural heritage.
Originally reported by The Guardian. View original.