Africa

France Returns Sacred Djidji Ayôkwé Drum to Ivory Coast After 110 Years

France repatriated the sacred Djidji Ayôkwé talking drum to Ivory Coast on February 20, 2026, marking a significant cultural restitution. This event follows a framework law passed by France's Senate in January 2026, aimed at facilitating the return of looted artifacts amid rising demands for colonial reparations. The return of this drum, central to Ebrié heritage, is expected to bolster cultural pride and may accelerate further repatriation efforts of other artifacts sought by Ivory Coast.