Sacred Drum Gigi Ayokwe Returned to Ivory Coast After a Century in France

Sacred Drum Gigi Ayokwe Returned to Ivory Coast After a Century in France The sacred drum Gigi Ayokwe, confiscated by French colonial authorities in 1916, has been returned to Ivory Coast after more than a century. This significant restitution is seen as a symbol of justice, memory, and a reconnection with ancestral heritage. The drum, a four-meter-long “talking drum” used for communication, will be permanently exhibited in the Museum of Civilizations of Ivory Coast.

• The sacred drum Gigi Ayokwe, seized by French colonial authorities in 1916, has been returned to Ivory Coast.
• The return of the drum is considered one of the most significant cultural heritage restitutions to former French colonies.
• The artifact, known as a “talking drum,” has deep symbolic meaning and represents a connection to ancestors.
• The drum will be permanently displayed at the Museum of Civilizations of Ivory Coast.
• The return follows a promise made by French President Emmanuel Macron in 2021 and four years of negotiations.
• Talking drums are hourglass-shaped drums that can imitate human speech.