Tea is one of the few food products that has its own internationally-recognized day!
The United Nations adopted a resolution in 2019 that declared May 21 as International Tea Day. The goal is to raise awareness – not only of the history of tea and its global cultural significance, but to draw attention to the impact on its workers and the environment.
Here at The Tea Smith, we’re proud to work with Satemwa Tea and Coffee Estate in Malawi, East Africa. They are heavily focused on sustainability, not just of the land, but of their communities. They were even named one of the Companies to Inspire Africa in 2019.
Healthcare
Due to a lack of government resources, Satemwa considers providing healthcare part of doing business. “We have 4 clinics and an ambulance and work with government to provide ARVs and under 5 clinics free. We also employ health surveillance assistants who go round communities checking on general health as well as education on general hygiene, waste disposal etc.”
Education
They also provide childcare for working mothers and a primary school (with government support) for over 1,000 kids. Funds from FAIRTRADE sales provide scholarships to 120 kids, with Rare Charity providing “the route to tertiary education for promising kids who would otherwise not get the opportunity”.
Gender Equity
Following in the footsteps of former Chairman Chip, Satemwa is committed to mentoring women from all walks of life within their company.
Sustainability
The tea estate is positioned in a region that has been stripped of its resources. In addition to reforesting spare areas of the land, Satemwa encourages small holders to create small forests, use energy efficient stoves, plant fruit trees for sustenance and biodiversity, and more.
Community Involvement
Over the years, Satemwa has partnered with a number of organizations to respond to crises. From Médecins Sans Frontières handling the HIV/AIDS crisis in the 2000s to weekly community “under 5 clinics”, to the Rare Charity delivering education to underprivileged young adults.
Quality Loose Leaf Teas
We currently carry four loose leaf teas from Satemwa Estate. Join us in supporting and celebrating the work they do!
Livingston Oolong Tea‘s production is different from traditional Chinese and Taiwanese practices. It is partially oxidized to bring out a depth of complexity in the cup. You will notice a lightness on the tongue, yet it has plenty of body and bright fruity notes.
Zomba Green Tea is steamed to halt oxidation. It seems to preserve the vibrant interplay between layers of fresh vegetal notes, and a lingering citrus sweetness.
Malawi Black Tea is a small holder tea, which means it is grown on a farm less than five acres in size. The tea leaves are handpicked and allowed to fully oxidize.
Bvumbwe Hand Made Treasure Black Tea is smooth and mellow, with notes of peach. A close examination of the leaves shows the quality of the plucking. Try brewing this at 175° and compare the flavor to the traditional approach of 208° water.