In a symbolic act of cultural restitution, France has returned a sacred talking drum that was taken during the colonial era to Ivory Coast.

The historic instrument, considered a powerful cultural and spiritual symbol in Ivorian communities, was originally seized during the period of French colonial rule in West Africa. For decades, it remained in French collections before recent efforts intensified to return artifacts taken during colonial expansion.

Officials from both countries described the return as an important step toward acknowledging historical injustices and restoring cultural heritage to its rightful communities. The drum is expected to be preserved and displayed in Abidjan, where it will be accessible to the public and serve as a reminder of the country’s cultural traditions.

Across Africa, governments and cultural organizations have been increasingly calling for the repatriation of artifacts taken during colonial rule and housed in European museums.

The return of the sacred talking drum adds to a growing list of cultural items being restored to their countries of origin, signaling a shift in how former colonial powers address the legacy of historical looting and cultural displacement.