France has formally returned the historic Djidji Ayokwe talking drum to Ivory Coast, marking a significant step in the ongoing repatriation of colonial-era artefacts to Africa.

The drum, looted in 1916 by French colonial troops, was handed over during an official ceremony in Paris attended by French Culture Minister Rachida Dati and Ivory Coast’s Culture Minister Francoise Remarck. The restitution reflects growing international pressure on European nations to return looted African cultural heritage.

A Powerful Symbol of Identity and Communication

Measuring more than three metres (10 feet) long and weighing about 430 kilograms (950 pounds), the Djidji Ayokwe drum was traditionally used by the Ebrie people to transmit messages between communities. Beyond its communication role, the drum represents history, identity, and spiritual heritage.

Remarck described the moment as deeply emotional, saying the symbolic artefact is “finally coming back to its homeland.” She noted that all of Ivory Coast is ready to welcome the historic treasure.

The drum will be permanently exhibited in a new museum currently under construction in Abidjan, the country’s commercial capital, where it is expected to become a major cultural and tourist attraction.

France’s Broader Colonial Artefacts Restitution Drive

The return of the Djidji Ayokwe drum is part of a wider effort by France to address restitution claims from former colonies. A new law aimed at authorising mass repatriations is expected to speed up the process.

French national museums hold tens of thousands of artefacts acquired during the colonial era. Countries such as Algeria, Mali and Benin have also demanded the return of their cultural property.

The move signals a shift toward historical accountability, cultural justice and renewed diplomatic ties between France and its former African colonies.