Côte d'Ivoire unveils repatriated sacred drum
Côte d'Ivoire celebrated its 66th Independence Day with the public presentation of the Djidji Ayôkwé, a revered talking drum returned from France. This sacred Atchan artifact was publicly displayed for the first time since its repatriation, drawing large crowds in Abidjan. The Djidji Ayôkwé, an imposing wooden drum over three meters long, served for generations as a vital communication tool for the Ebrie community. It transmitted complex messages across vast distances, from warning of dangers and summoning villagers to rallying people for defense. French colonial forces forcibly took the drum in 1916, transporting it to France where it remained for over a century, exhibited in various museums. Its return culminates years of persistent Ivorian efforts, formally requested in late 2018. France officially handed over the drum in early 2026, and it arrived back in Côte d'Ivoire in March. This repatriation aligns with a growing international movement for restitution of African heritage. On Independence Day, the Djidji Ayôkwé was a focal point of national festivities. Transported on a decorated float, it formed part of a military parade through Abidjan. Traditional leaders and residents welcomed its return with a solemn libation ceremony. This historic event symbolizes justice and remembrance for the Ivorian people, reconnecting them with a crucial piece of their identity and history. The Djidji Ayôkwé is slated for permanent exhibition at Abidjan's Museum of Civilizations for preservation and accessibility. The repatriation underscores the profound importance of cultural heritage in national identity and the ongoing global dialogue about colonial-era acquisitions.
