"Mai Shayi" tea drinking and how it has become a norm in our society.

Background;

"Shai," which is a popular Nigerian drink. "Mai Shai" means "owner of the cup" in the Hausa language. The drink is a traditional Nigerian non-alcoholic beverage, and its history can be traced back to the Hausa culture.

Shai is a mixture of various ingredients, including coffee, milk, sugar, and different spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. It is usually served hot and is a popular beverage among the Hausa people in Nigeria and other West African countries. The drink is often prepared during social gatherings, celebrations, and family events, symbolizing warmth, hospitality, and togetherness. Tea has been popular in Nigeria and Africa for centuries, with a rich history of tea consumption dating back to colonial times when British colonizers introduced tea to the continent. Over time, the tradition of tea-drinking became deeply rooted in African culture, and the demand for tea grew.

The history of Mai Shai in Nigeria is deeply rooted in the Hausa culture, which dates back centuries. The Hausa people have a rich culinary tradition, and Shai is an essential part of it. Over time, the drink has become more widespread across Nigeria and West Africa, reflecting the diverse cultural exchange in the region.

The Mai Shayi profession emerged as a response to this demand, providing a convenient and affordable way for people to enjoy tea on the go. These street vendors typically set up their small stalls in busy areas, such as markets, transportation hubs, or residential neighbourhoods, catering to the needs of passers-by and local communities.
Over the years, the Mai Shayi profession has evolved and adapted to changing tastes and preferences, offering a variety of tea options, including local herbal teas and flavoured blends, alongside traditional black tea. It has also become an essential part of Nigeria's and Africa's informal economy, providing income opportunities for many individuals and contributing to the local economy.

What is a Mai Shayi?
Mai Shayi refers to vendors who typically operate mobile kiosks or stalls, selling hot tea, coffee, and snacks. They are a familiar sight in busy areas, bus stops, and markets, providing a quick and affordable breakfast or evening meal for commuters, workers, and residents.


Mai Shayi stall in Nigeria
Beyond Tea
While tea is a staple offering, Mai Shayi stalls have evolved to include a wider variety of items to cater to customer demand. A typical menu may include:

• Indomie noodles (a popular instant noodle brand)
• Boiled peanuts
• Agege Bread (a savory deep-fried bread)
• Fried eggs
• Bean cakes (akara)
• Soft drinks

Social Hubs
Beyond just food and drinks, Mai Shayi stalls serve as social hubs. People from all walks of life gather to chat, catch up on news, and enjoy a cup of tea. They are a vital part of the community, fostering a sense of belonging and connection.

Low Barrier to Entry
The Mai Shayi business is attractive due to the low barrier to entry. With minimal start-up capital, a motivated individual can set up a stall and start trading. This makes it a viable source of income for many Nigerians, particularly those seeking self-employment.

Economic Importance
The Mai Shayi business contributes significantly to the Nigerian economy. It provides employment opportunities, stimulates local markets through the purchase of supplies, and offers a convenient and affordable food option for many Nigerians.

Challenges
Despite its advantages, the Mai Shayi business faces some challenges. These include:

• Competition from established fast-food chains
• Fluctuations in the prices of ingredients
• Lack of access to proper sanitation and hygiene facilities

Here are some common types of Mai Shayi:

1. Black Tea: This is the most traditional and widely consumed type of tea. It is made using black tea leaves, boiling water, and sugar or other sweeteners. Sometimes, spices like ginger or cinnamon are added for flavor.

2. Herbal Tea: These are non-caffeinated teas made from various herbs, leaves, and flowers native to Nigeria and other African countries. Examples include rooibos, hibiscus, lemongrass, and chamomile teas. Herbal teas are often consumed for their health benefits and unique flavors.

3. Milk Tea: Also known as "bukasai" or "susu tea," this type of Mai Shayi is made by adding evaporated milk or condensed milk to black tea. The result is a creamy, sweet beverage that is popular among tea lovers.

4. Bobo Chin Chin Tea: This is a popular combination of tea and a sweet snack called "Chin Chin." The tea is prepared as usual, and the Chin Chin, a biscuit made from flour, sugar, and butter, is dipped in the tea before consumption.

5. Tumeric Tea: This type of tea is known for its health benefits, as turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties. It is made by boiling turmeric powder in water, sometimes with other spices like ginger, and sweetened with sugar or honey.

6. Fruit Tea: Fruit teas are made by infusing various dried fruits, like apples, oranges, or lemons, in boiling water. They are often sweetened and can be served hot or cold, depending on personal preference.

These are just a few examples of the many types of tea (Shayi) available in Nigeria and across Africa. Street vendors often experiment with different ingredients and combinations to cater to diverse tastes and preferences.


Mai Shayi, or street tea selling, has evolved significantly over time. The evolution can be observed in various aspects, such as the types of tea available, the way they are prepared, marketing strategies, and the role they play in Nigerian society. Here are some key ways in which Mai Shayi has evolved:

1. Types of Tea: In the past, black tea was the most common type of tea sold by street vendors. However, as consumer preferences have diversified, vendors have started offering a wider range of tea options, including herbal teas, milk teas, and fruit teas. This expansion in the variety of teas available has made Mai Shayi more appealing to a broader audience.

2. Preparation Methods: Over time, the methods of preparing Mai Shayi have also evolved. While the traditional method of boiling tea leaves in a pot with water and sugar remains popular, some vendors have started using tea bags or tea infusers for a more consistent and convenient brewing process. Additionally, the introduction of cold tea options, such as iced tea and tea-based smoothies, has expanded the range of beverages available.

3. Marketing and Branding: As the Mai Shayi industry has grown, vendors have started to focus more on marketing their products and creating a unique brand identity. This includes using eye-catching signage, branded cups, and even customized tea bags for their blends. Some vendors have also started selling their tea blends in retail outlets, expanding their customer base beyond street stalls.




The modernization of the Mai Shayi, or tea selling, can be observed in various aspects, including the use of technology, product innovation, and marketing strategies. Here are some ways in which the traditional Mai Shayi profession has evolved:

1. Use of Technology: In recent years, many Mai Shayi vendors have started using mobile point-of-sale (mPOS) devices to accept digital payments. This has made transactions more convenient and secure for both vendors and customers. Additionally, some vendors have adopted social media platforms to promote their businesses and reach a wider audience.

2. Product Innovation: To cater to changing consumer preferences, Mai Shayi vendors have started offering new and innovative tea blends. This includes experimenting with different flavors, incorporating local herbs, and even introducing cold tea options, such as iced tea or tea-based smoothies. Some vendors have also started offering tea-infused snacks and desserts, like tea-flavored cakes or cookies.

3. Branding and Packaging: Many modern Mai Shayi vendors have started to focus on branding and packaging to make their products more appealing to customers. This includes using eye-catching signage, branded cups, and even customized tea bags for their blends. Some vendors have even started selling their tea blends in retail outlets, expanding their customer base beyond their street stalls.

4. Healthier Options: In response to growing health consciousness among consumers, some Mai Shayi vendors have started offering healthier alternatives, such as herbal teas, green teas, and low-sugar options. They also provide information about the health benefits of their products to attract health-conscious customers.

5. Collaborations and Events: Some modern Mai Shayi vendors collaborate with other businesses, like cafes or restaurants, to showcase their products or participate in events, such as food festivals or pop-up markets. This helps them reach new audiences and gain exposure for their businesses.

These modernization efforts have helped transform the traditional Mai Shayi profession, making it more competitive and attractive to both vendors and customers. As a result, the Mai Shayi industry continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs and preferences of the market.