The river is navigable for about 150 miles (240 km) from its mouth, located 60 kilometers (37 mi) south of Luanda.

The river's navigable lower course was the original route of the Portuguese invasion of northern Angola.

The Capanda Dam in Malanje Province was finished in 2004, providing hydroelectric power to the region and assisting in its irrigation.

The Church of Nossa Senhora da Victoria stands near the banks of the Kwanza River in Massanganu, Province of Cuanza-Norte, Angola.

[5] Rich biodiversity has been found in the Angolan river, according to research reported on the Science and Development Network website.