90% of Africa's cultural heritage: Currently resides outside the continent.
Benin Bronzes: Notable sculptures made in the Kingdom of Benin, modern-day Nigeria.
Importance of Returning Artifacts
Artefacts hold significant cultural and historical value to African societies.
Common sense and moral obligation support their return to their place of origin.
Historical Context
1897 Invasion: British soldiers invaded the Kingdom of Benin, seizing thousands of artefacts.
Artifacts' Storytelling: Artefacts like the Benin Bronzes tell the history and stories of the people from whom they originate.
Recent Developments
Horniman Museum: Announced the return of 17 artifacts to Nigeria, including 12 brass plaques, as an appropriate and moral action.
Precedents:
In 2021, Cambridge University's Jesus College returned a Benin bronze sculpture.
Germany also returned similar artifacts.
Impact of Awareness and Activism
Creating awareness about these issues is crucial for gaining traction and making decisions.
The return of these artifacts marks a new chapter in acknowledging and reclaiming African heritage and its place in world history.
Conclusion
The movement towards returning African artifacts is seen as a recognition of Africa's creativity and ingenuity, acknowledging their rightful ownership of these cultural treasures.