These objects were not acquired through fair trade; they were looted, pillaged, and taken under duress during the colonial era, a process that stripped African nations of their cultural wealth, historical identity, and spiritual connection. The time for polite debate on this matter has passed. It is time for unconditional restitution.
The argument for keeping these artifacts in Western institutions, often framed around "proper preservation," is a paternalistic, neo-colonial stance. It is insulting to suggest that Africa, the cradle of civilization, lacks the capability to care for its own treasures. Furthermore, this "caretaker" narrative overlooks that many of these objects are sacred, meant to be used, experienced, and, in some cases, to decay and be replaced, rather than merely displayed as frozen "curiosities".
Significant progress has been made, particularly with Germany's commitment to returning all its African artifacts and France’s proactive steps, following the landmark Sarr-Savoy report. However, resistance remains from major institutions like the British Museum, which continues to hold countless items, including the Benin Bronzes.
Restitution must not be a symbolic gesture, but a comprehensive effort to repair colonial injustices; Decolonize Museums: Western institutions must recognize their complicity in holding stolen goods and expedite the return process, moving beyond temporary loans to permanent repatriation; Invest in Local Infrastructure: While the return is not dependent on Western approval, international support should be directed toward building and strengthening museum facilities in Africa, ensuring they have the capacity to manage their returned heritage; Reconnect Communities: Restitution is about more than placing items in a different museum. It is about empowering local communities to reconnect with their ancestry, spiritual traditions, and history.
The return of African artifacts is fundamentally a question of justice. These items are the "ancestors" of the continent, and holding them abroad is a continuation of colonial theft. Restoring them is essential for the healing and cultural revitalization of African nations.
The world must stop guarding African treasures from Africans. The return of these icons is not just about the past; it is about respecting African identity in the present.
A Guest Editorial