Antananarivo: An official ceremony was held on Tuesday in Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar, to welcome the colonial-era relics returned by France. Three skulls of the Sakalava ethnic group, one of which is believed to belong to King Toera and the other two to his warriors, were returned to Madagascar after 128 years in France.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina paid tribute to the historical figures during the ceremony. He highlighted the courageous struggle led by King Toera in Ambiky in August 1897 against French colonizers. Rajoelina emphasized that while history cannot be forgotten, the return of these relics serves as a reminder of the enduring memory of those who fought for their country.
President Rajoelina stated that the memory of those who sacrificed for Madagascar remains alive and underscores the nation’s duty to preserve this heritage. He expressed a commitment to building a united and prosperous nation, aspiring for Madagascar’s progression and rightful place in the world.
The skulls were officially handed over to Madagascar during a ceremony at the French Ministry of Culture in late August. Following the ceremony in Antananarivo, the relics will be transported to the Menabe region in western Madagascar for burial later this week.
Madagascar was colonized by France in 1896 and achieved independence on June 26, 1960.