Mazao
| Other Symbols: Mazao | Mkeka | Kinara | Vibunzi | Zawadi |Kikombe Cha Umoja |
The mazao have significance because they symbolize the rewards of collective productive labor. Moreover, as Kwanzaa means fist or first fruits and it was patterned after the traditional celebrations that take place among African agricultural socities at harvest time. At harvest time the fruits of collective labor abound and it is a time of great joy and togetherness, a time for Thanksgiving and remembrance. The mazao therefore, represent the historical toots of the holiday itself.
