Moyo Nguvu

Kwanzaa

Kwanzaa is an African-American celebration based on traditional Afrikan concepts. It was instituted by Dr. Ron Karenga in the United States in the 1960’s. Kwanzaa derives its name from the Kiswahili term meaning “first fruits”. Kwanzaa has no particular religious affiliation- it is a communal spiritual vehicle which celebrates unity.

Kwanzaa begins on December 26th and ends on January 1st. Each day represents a specific principle, and acknowledged through the lighting of a candle.

There are seven principles and seven candles embody them. These candles are red (3), Black (1), and green (3)



					The seven principles are called the “Nguzo Saba”, and are as follows: Umoja (Unity) Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility) Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics) Nia (Purpose) Kuumba (Creativity) Imani (Faith) Kwanzaa is a family celebration. Members of the family show their appreciation for each other by saying prayers together, eating together, and giving gifts that are functional and practical. It is about conserving resources, not dispersing your finances. Moyo Nguvu Cultural Arts Center has produced the largest Kwanzaa Karimu in Colorado for more than 18 years.
			Kwanzaa Kwanzaa is an African-American celebration based on traditional Afrikan concepts. It was instituted by Dr. Ron Karenga in the United States in the 1960’s. Kwanzaa derives its name from the Kiswahili term meaning “first fruits”. Kwanzaa has no particular religious affiliation- it is a communal spiritual vehicle which celebrates unity. Kwanzaa begins on December 26th and ends on January 1st. Each day represents a specific principle, and acknowledged through the lighting of a candle. There are seven principles and seven candles embody them. These candles are red (3), Black (1), and green (3)