In the humid lower highlands Z. gilletii can be planted for timber production. The wood is medium light weight and durable to weather but not in the ground. It seasons well and bends easily on steaming. Used for door-frames, gates, carpentry and all heavy construction works. The seed coat contains an aromatic oil. A bark decoction is drunk for constipation, complicated gastrointestinal conditions, colds and fever. The root bark is used in traditional Tanzanian antimalarial preparations. In Western Kenya, a psychosomatic/magical or superstitious use is ascribed to the plant relating to its spiny nature, it reportedly drives away persons with the ‘evil eye’ or bad intentions like stealing, witchcraft. The East African satinwood is a beautiful tree with a spiny stem and glossy foliage making it a popular ornamental tree.