A new report has spotlighted Kenya’s second-hand clothing (mitumba) industry as a vital driver of economic inclusion, environmental sustainability, and job creation. The report, “A Future Look at the Apparel and Footwear Industry in Kenya (2022–2037),” was unveiled by Chairperson Teresia Wairimu Njenga of the Mitumba Consortium Association of Kenya (MCAK), in collaboration with the Institute of Economic Affairs.
Described as a landmark study, the report outlines a 15-year roadmap supporting a dual-sector model that encourages the coexistence of mitumba trade and local textile manufacturing to accelerate economic transformation.
“This report proves that mitumba is not a threat — it’s part of the solution,” said Njenga during the launch. “We can create an inclusive, job-rich, and sustainable apparel sector by supporting both SHC [second-hand clothing] and local manufacturing.”
According to the report, over 2 million Kenyans earn their livelihoods through the mitumba trade, representing 10% of the country’s extended labor force. The sector is also a significant revenue generator, contributing more than KSh 16 billion annually in tax revenue—surpassing the contributions of Kenya’s wine and spirits industry. On average, each ton of SHC imported creates 7.58 jobs across East Africa, with each shipping container bringing in at least KSh 2 million in taxes.
The mitumba sector plays a key role in reducing environmental impact. The report highlights that the industry saves approximately 4.5 million tons of CO₂ and 8.5 billion liters of water annually. Additionally, less than 2% of imported clothing ends up as waste, thanks to high reuse rates. For every 100 used garments imported, the production of 60–85 new garments is avoided—contributing significantly to circular economy efforts.
The industry has also proven to be socially inclusive, with high participation by women and youth, particularly in urban informal markets such as Gikomba. Mitumba also provides affordable, quality clothing to millions of Kenyan households.
The report calls on policymakers to support a balanced policy framework that incentivizes both sectors and ensures sustainable growth. It also emphasizes the importance of regional collaboration in East Africa to harmonize trade standards and scale impact across the continent.
By 2037, the report projects a doubling of average incomes in Kenya, which is expected to strengthen both the mitumba and local apparel markets.
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