France has announced the return of the Djidji Ayôkwé, a significant cultural artifact belonging to the Ivorian Ebrie people, which had been taken during the colonial period in 1916. The drum was sent to France in 1929, where it has since been displayed at various museums, including the Musée du Quai Branly. The public and governmental response in Côte d'Ivoire has been overwhelmingly positive, with strong sentiments expressed about the drum's return and what it symbolizes for cultural heritage and colonial history.

On February 20, Ivorian Minister of Culture Françoise Remarck expressed her appreciation for the return of the drum, stating that it has been missing from its rightful home for 110 years. She described the forthcoming return as a meaningful opportunity for the whole nation, emphasizing that the drum represents not just a historical artifact but a sacred object pivotal to the identity and cultural legacy of the Ebrie people. The government plans to host a national celebration in Abidjan to mark the drum’s homecoming, signifying a restored connection between Côte d'Ivoire and its African heritage.

The return of the Djidji Ayôkwé aligns with a broader trend in which countries are increasingly demanding the repatriation of cultural treasures taken during colonial rule. This development has implications for international relations and discussions regarding restitution, as several nations continue to seek the return of their artifacts held in Western museums. France's action may encourage other countries to follow suit and reassess their collections, making this a significant moment in the ongoing dialogue surrounding colonial legacies and cultural restitution.