Nairobi Chai

You asked, we listened! Introducing "Nairobi Chai," the newest and sassiest member of the Ajiri lineup.

Bright notes of pepper and ginger punctuate our smooth and robust Kenyan Black Tea, while subtle hints of cardamom and clove round out this vibrant blend. 

20 Teabags (1.6 oz) 

Kenyan Black Tea, Cinnamon, Ginger, Cardamom, Black Pepper, and Clove 

Now for a bit of history on this new blend: 

"Chai," or a spiced tea, is often thought of as hailing from India. And indeed, it is. But spiced black tea also has origins in the Swahili Coast of East Africa!

 Stretching from southern Somalia to northern Mozambique, the Swahili Coast is a region united by a common Swahili language and a long history of global trade with Arabs, Persians, and Europeans.

Zanzibar was at the center of the Swahili Coast spice trade. Spices were first commercially cultivated by the Portuguese, and then later, in the 18th century, by the Omani Arabs.

Today the Kenyan coastal culture reflects this layered past. Visit the Kenyan island of Lamu and you can hear the call to prayer echo over narrow streets where smooth stone houses are adorned with intricately carved wooden doors. This blended history is evident in the religion. It is evident in the Omani-inspired architecture. And it is reflected in the traditional spiced tea and coffee. 

People keep moving and history keeps moving. So this is our take on the coastal chai, but made with the bustling city of Nairobi in mind--the trading hub of Kenya. As always, 100% of profits from the sale of Ajiri Tea go back to the region to pay school fees for orphans. Enjoy this blend steeped in history.