On February 20, 2026, a significant historical event took place with the return of the Djidji Ayôkwé speaking drum to Côte d'Ivoire. This drum, which had been taken by French colonizers over a century ago in 1916, was officially restituted during a ceremony held at the Musée du quai Branly in Paris. The return of this drum marks a crucial moment for cultural repatriation and healing of historical injustices, as it was an essential artifact for the Aatchan people who originally owned it.

The restitution ceremony featured the signing of a transfer of ownership by the French and Ivorian Culture Ministers, underscoring the collaborative spirit between the two nations in addressing the legacies of colonialism. The drum, an impressive artifact weighing over 400 kilograms and nearly four meters long, is expected to be displayed as the centerpiece of the upcoming Museum of Civilizations in Abidjan, which is set to open later this year.

This return of the Djidji Ayôkwé is not simply a matter of cultural pride; it represents a broader movement toward acknowledging and rectifying the historical wrongs associated with colonialism. It sets an example for other countries and institutions that hold cultural treasures taken during colonial times, fostering dialogue about the significance of heritage and its place in contemporary society.