African Sabre, West Africa....Ivory Coast???

[katana]

Just purchased this sabre, the blade is 26 inch long seems to made of good steel, and has a broad fuller each side. The handle is leather cover. The sheath is made from canvas, fur and leather. Searching on the 'Anthropological Collections' website I found a sheath that is identical to a sword from the Ivory Coast.
I haven't received the sword yet, but I am wondering whether this sword has a European blade. I thought that generally speaking 'African Sabres' tend to be found in the North, or is that a gross simplification?
The seller suggested 18c , but if he is right, could this be a relic of the slave trade era. (ah ..the romantic thoughts of a fool)

Comments gratefully received ( about the sword...not my sanity )