Switzerland returns two monolithic stelae confiscated from Cameroon

Switzerland has returned two confiscated monolithic stelae popularly known as “Akwanshi” originating from the South West Region of Cameroon.

The objects were received on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, by the Embassy of Cameroon in Switzerland.

In a recent tweet by Cameroon Diplomacy, they stated,

“The Embassy of Cameroon in Switzerland obtained the return of two monolithic steles originating from the South West Region of Cameroon, called “Akwanshi”, adorned with an anthropomorphic representation,”

In another tweet, the same source revealed that the said objects were confiscated, …” within the framework of criminal proceedings in the canton of Geneva.”

Akwanshis it should be noted are circles of large stones varying from 1 to 6 feet (30 to 180 cm) high.

They are carved in low relief to represent human figures and are believed not to be earlier than the 16th century.

The traditional artifacts are therefore expected to be returned to their origin any time soon.