France Returns Historic Colonial-Era ‘Talking Drum’ to Ivory Coast

Ivory Coast has marked the return of the historic “talking drum,” known as the Djidji Ayokwe, which was confiscated by French colonial forces over a century ago. The sacred artifact, traditionally used by the Ebrié people for long-distance communication and warning of approaching threats, had been preserved in Paris at the Musée du Quai Branly. Its restitution represents a significant milestone in ongoing bilateral efforts to return cultural heritage taken from the African continent during the colonial era to its country of origin.

• The Djidji Ayokwe, a ceremonial wooden talking drum, was seized by French colonial forces in 1916.
• The artifact originally served as a vital communication instrument for the Ebrié community to transmit messages and warn villages of danger.
• The drum had been held in France at the Musée du Quai Branly–Jacques Chirac prior to its formal repatriation.
• The handover reflects continuing international discussions and legal frameworks aimed at restoring looted African cultural property.

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