Ujamaa, the Swahili word for extended family, has become more widely understood as cooperative economics celebrated during the fourth day of Kwanzaa. But the concept isn't really about gift-giving, and it goes well beyond Kwanzaa.
The meaning of this word is the blueprint for how we can build wealth for ourselves and future generations. Black influence will continue to grow as our buying power does – which is projected to reach $1.8T by 2024. This can have major impact on our communities locally AND globally.
Ujamaa signifies a unified Black community that comes together to help financially support and uplift each other. There’s no better time of year to reaffirm the Black community’s commitment to invest in ourselves and our community than a time when spending and loved ones are openly celebrated.
By investing in ourselves and supporting other Black businesses, we’re building a stronger, more financially liberated community. Ujamaa reminds us of our need to develop our own businesses and economic control. Now what gift is more valuable than that?