Since 1892, 26 royal art works have been looted from the kingdom of Dahomey (now Benin) by French during the colonial period. They are now back in their native land. A first restitution in the history of French Republic to African country. Waiting was long but the reward worth it.
On November 10, 2021, a ceremony is organized at the palace of the Marina, in the presidency Benin, a festive and as well than solemn event to celebrate a special moment: France is returning to Benin 26 works of art looted since 1892 during the colonial period. A transfer of property that marks the epilogue of incessant requests made by the Beninese state over several years to the French republic.
In fact, according to experts, around 85% of Africa’s cultural heritage is located outside the continent. hus, for decades, several African countries have been demanding the return of their plundered heritage. Benin, which is on this list, has been in the process of returning its properties since 2016. A first attempt was rejected by France because of the principle of inalienability. But fortunately in 2017, the current French government, which intends to change the relationship between France and Africa, announced to return the artworks claimed by Benin in a speech delivered by the French president at the Ki-Zerbo University of Ouagadougou. This surprising announcement follows the first significant return of art to an African country.
Benin, the first country on the list of African countries to have its treasures returned, has just achieved a feat from a cultural point of view. Consisting of royal thrones, wooden doors and royal statues, these treasures are precious souvenirs of the last kings of the kingdom of Danxomè, Ghézo, Glèlè and Béhanzin. Forced into exile for about 130 years, these objects finally bring a true memorial and heritage restitution to the Beninese people. Symbol of kings power, they are the soul of a whole nation since they were conceived in a particular royal context.
Moreover, with the construction of the new museum to house this heritage in Abomey, the tourism sector will be more organized in Benin and a good number of jobs will be created thereby reducing the unemployment rate in the country. These treasures in Beninese museums are now a source of wealth because they are potential touristic places for visitors. It should be noted that several other African countries including Chad, Senegal, Cameroon … are waiting on the list and request an effective return of their cultural heritage. All of which will help boost the economies of African countries through the tourism sector.
Eliane FATCHINA
