Kwanza means “first” in Swahili and was established to link rural artisans and small scale producers to local regional and export markets. 
 
Handcraft groups are assisted to improve their standard of living through craft and food production by helping to revive and promote traditional culture and skills.
 
Every effort is made to increase their self reliance, by introducing them to customers, and arranging participation in craft fairs. 
 
Thirty six producer groups currently work with Kwanza.  Many of them, especially the women who make the baskets, live at great distances from their markets, and the collection of their products is an important service provided by Kwanza.
 
Women have traditionally been second to men in status and importance.  However they have benefited from increased ability to earn, and workshops on gender issues have slowly begun to change attitudes amongst the men.