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France Returns Historic Drum to Ivory Coast After 110 Years

2/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On February 20, 2026, France returned the Djidji Ayokwe talking drum looted in 1916 from Ivory Coast.
The drum measures over three meters in length and weighs 430 kilos.
Ivory Coast Culture Minister Françoise Remarck expressed deep emotion at the Paris ceremony, noting the drum's return.
The repatriation is part of France's effort to return stolen artefacts, aided by a new law, and the drum will be displayed in Abidjan.

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Story summary

On February 20, 2026, France returned the Djidji Ayokwe talking drum looted in 1916 from Ivory Coast.
The drum measures over three meters in length and weighs 430 kilos.
Ivory Coast Culture Minister Françoise Remarck expressed deep emotion at the Paris ceremony, noting the drum's return.
The repatriation is part of France's effort to return stolen artefacts, aided by a new law, and the drum will be displayed in Abidjan.