Kenya Emerges as Africa's Leading Importer of Second-Hand Clothing
Kenya has recently overtaken Nigeria to become Africa's largest importer of second-hand clothing, commonly known locally as "mitumba." This shift highlights the growing reliance on used apparel within the country and its significant impact on the local economy.
Surge in Import Volumes
In the second quarter of 2023, Kenya imported 53,979 tonnes of second-hand clothing, marking a 30.6% increase compared to the 41,314 tonnes imported during the same period in 2022. This represents the highest import volume since the fourth quarter of 2021, when 55,184 tonnes were recorded.
Economic Implications
The mitumba trade has evolved into a multi-billion-shilling industry in Kenya, providing employment to approximately two million individuals. Major markets such as Gikomba, Eastleigh, Muthurwa, and Toi in Nairobi serve as hubs for this bustling sector.
Financial Expenditure on Imports
Between April 2023 and March 2024, Kenyan traders spent nearly Ksh27.82 billion on importing second-hand clothes, reflecting a 33.32% increase from the previous year's expenditure of Ksh20.9 billion. This surge underscores the escalating demand for affordable used clothing among Kenyan consumers.
Dominance of Chinese Imports
China has solidified its position as Kenya's primary source of second-hand clothing. In the first quarter of 2024, imports from China surged by 86.2%, with 31,594 tonnes valued at $22.732 million (Ksh3.03 billion) entering the Kenyan market. This significant increase highlights China's growing influence in supplying affordable used apparel to Kenya.
Challenges for the Local Textile Industry
The burgeoning mitumba market poses challenges for Kenya's domestic textile industry. Despite the presence of 52 textile mills in the country, only 15 are operational, operating at just 45% capacity due to factors like low labor productivity and outdated technology. Additionally, high electricity costs have further eroded the competitiveness of local textile production.
Government's Stance and Future Outlook
The Kenyan government has expressed concerns over the heavy reliance on imported clothing. Former Investments and Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria remarked, "It is a shame that we continue importing both new and second-hand clothes into our country, 60 years since we got our Independence." This sentiment reflects the administration's intent to bolster local manufacturing and reduce dependency on imports.
Kenya's ascendancy as Africa's top importer of second-hand clothing underscores the complex dynamics between consumer demand for affordable apparel and the challenges facing local textile production. While the mitumba trade significantly contributes to employment and economic activity, it also highlights the need for strategic policies to revitalize and support the domestic textile industry.
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