Kenya has overtaken Nigeria to become Africa’s largest importer of second-hand clothing, importing apparel worth Sh38.5 billion ($298 million) in 2023. Data compiled by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) reveals Kenya’s imports increased by 12.45% from the previous year, highlighting a growing reliance on imported used clothing, locally known as “mitumba.”
Kenya’s import surge has reignited debate around its textile industry, which faces challenges from mitumba’s affordability.
While countries like Uganda, Rwanda, and Ethiopia have enacted policies to restrict second-hand clothing imports to boost domestic manufacturing, Kenya remains conflicted due to its commitments under the US African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa), which mandates openness to used clothing imports in exchange for trade benefits.
The Kenyan government aims to rejuvenate its textile sector through the Fourth Medium-Term Plan, establishing new ginneries, equipping tailoring facilities at county industrial centres, and launching global promotional campaigns for locally-made textiles.
These initiatives reflect a strategic move toward reducing dependence on imported second-hand clothing.
Despite these plans, industry leaders highlight the challenges posed by mitumba, emphasizing that sustained efforts and clear policy measures will be critical for the revival of Kenya’s domestic textile and apparel industries.
source: www.nation.africa/kenya
