Mazao : (The Crops) These are
symbolic of African harvest celebrations and of the rewards of productive
and collective labor.
Mkeka : (The Mat) This is symbolic of our tradition and history and
therefore, the foundation on which we build.
Kinara : (The Candle Holder) The Kwanzaa candles and harvest This is
symbolic of our roots, our parent people -- continental Africans.
Muhindi : (The Corn) This is symbolic of our children and our future which
they embody.
Mishumaa Saba : (The Seven Candles) These are symbolic of the Nguzo Saba,
the Seven Principles, the matrix and minimum set of values which African
people are urged to live by in order to rescue and reconstruct their lives
in their own image and according to their own needs.
Kikombe cha Umoja : (The Unity Cup) This is symbolic of the foundational
principle and practice of unity which makes all else possible.
Zawadi : (The Gifts) These are symbolic of the labor and love of parents and
the commitments made and kept by the children.
