AKINA Teas Australia was established in 2022 by childhood friends Malek Sheikh and Anika De Silva, who originally met in school in Kenya. Malek is committed to showcasing the rich flavours and benefits of Kenyan tea to Australians, working closely with tea-growing communities to ensure sustainability and quality. Anika, a Sri Lankan raised in Kenya, brings a passion for tea and a talent for creating exquisite products with an African influence, aimed at enhancing customers' health and well-being. Anika's family has deep roots in the tea industry; her father serves as the Managing Director at Empire Teas Kenya, and her mother is recognized as the world's first female tea auctioneer. Based in Brisbane, Australia, Malek and Anika are enthusiastic about sharing their appreciation for Kenyan tea and culture with the Australian community.

 

The name "Akina," which means "solidarity," "bond," or "family bond" in Swahili—a language integral to Kenya’s cultural heritage—reflects our commitment to uniting people through the shared experience of tea. After years of collaboration with Sri Lankan and Kenyan tea specialists and extensive experimentation with various grades of Kenyan teas, aromatic spices, vitamin-rich fruits, and therapeutic herbs, Anika and Malek transitioned their tea passion into a full-time endeavor. By 2023, our selection had grown to include over 18 unique blends.

Today, AKINA Teas operates as a close-knit team united by a shared passion for introducing Kenyan tea to Australia's diverse multicultural community. We remain dedicated to continuous growth, innovation, and improvement while valuing the connections and experiences that enrich our journey.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

​Why Choose Kenyan Tea?​​

Kenyan tea, first introduced in 1903 by GWL Caine in what is now Limuru, has since become a significant player in the global tea market. The commercialisation of Kenyan tea began in 1924 with Malcolm Fyers Bell, and Kenya has since emerged as the world's leading producer of black tea, surpassing both China and India. Known for its rich flavour, nutritional benefits, and therapeutic properties, Kenyan tea is a major foreign exchange earner for the country, alongside tourism, horticulture, and coffee. This storied legacy has led to the development of teas that seamlessly blend flavor, nutrition, and wellness, catering to the demands of modern lifestyles. Each blend is distinguished by its exceptional quality and we believe this is what sets Kenyan teas apart.

With this in mind, AKINA Teas Australia is dedicated to delivering the finest Kenyan teas to the Australian community. We take pride in our premium tea selection process, ensuring that each box of tea embodies the rich, authentic flavours of Kenya. Our mission is to bring the luxurious taste and health benefits of Kenyan tea to Australia, offering a pure and indulgent flavour experience with every cup.

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