Ritual Objects and Symbols
Mkeka: straw table mat, on which all other objects are placed
Mazao: crops, symbols of the fruits of collective labor
Muhindi: one ear of corn for each child, symbolizing fertility
Kikombe cha umoja: the unity cup, used to perform the libation ritual
Zawadi: gifts, traditional items that encourage success
Kinara: candleholder, a symbol of ancestry
Mishumaa saba: seven candles, one for each of the seven Kwanzaa principles