NGUZO SABA
The Meaning
Nguzo Saba (n-GU-zo SAH-bah), is Swahili for 'seven principles'. It is the basis on which Kwanzaa is set. Each day of Kwanzaa corresponds to one of the 7 principles:
​
-
Umoja (Unity) — Efforts that seek to maintain unity whether in the family, the community, or the nation (December 26);
-
Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) — Defining and speaking for ourselves, rather than being defined by or spoken for, by others (December 27)
-
Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility) — Working collectively to build-up the community and solve problems (December 28);
-
Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics) — Supporting our businesses and entrepreneurial efforts so that our communities can thrive (December 29)
-
Nia (Purpose) — Grounding our work and collective efforts in the purpose of restoring our traditional greatness (December 30)
-
Kuumba (Creativity) — Generating beauty through creative and artistic endeavors that establishes mutual benefit to the community (December 31)
-
Imani (Faith) — Having faith in the community power to be resilient even during the struggle for justice (January 1).
​
​
The Nguzo Saba is not only the way of Kwanzaa but for many, it is a way of life. These principles bring meaning and value to those that practice and live them out. When you are out with friends, at the job, or even all alone; these life principles are what make Kwanzaa, and the people that celebrate it, unique.
