Here Is The Speech By Teresiah Wairimu, Chairperson of Mitumba Consortium Association Of Kenya That Everyone Is Talking About

As the Chairperson of the Mitumba Consortium Association of Kenya, I have witnessed firsthand the immense potential of this industry and the positive impact it can have on our economies and communities.

The second-hand clothing sector is not just about selling used clothes; it represents a powerful force for economic growth, environmental sustainability, and job creation in East Africa.

It is a sector that empowers millions of people, particularly women and young people, by providing them with employment opportunities and the chance to establish thriving micro-businesses throughout the second-hand clothing supply chain.

Let us not be swayed by those who argue for imposing barriers and restrictions on the second-hand clothing sector. Such measures would only undermine the livelihoods of 3.4 million hardworking individuals in East Africa and hinder the progress of the majority.

How I pray we recognize instead that reducing the size of the second-hand clothing industry is not the solution required. It is time to embrace its potential and work together to create a prosperous, sustainable, and inclusive future for East Africa. The world is awakening to the environmental imperative of extending the life of clothing through reuse and reducing textile waste.

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In this regard, the second-hand clothing sector aligns perfectly with the global focus on the circular economy. East Africa has a unique opportunity to lead the transition from low-cost “fast fashion” to a sustainable circular production model. By supporting the second-hand clothing industry, we are not only championing economic growth but also embracing environmental responsibility.

Allow me to share with you some compelling reasons the second-hand clothing sector deserves your support and investment, as well as everyone else’s within and without this room:

First, a strong second-hand clothing sector creates employment opportunities. Every ton of second-hand clothing imported into the EAC states generates an impressive 7.58 jobs, providing a significant source of income for millions of individuals involved in second-hand clothing distribution chains across East Africa. If we further support the growth of this sector, we are empowering our people and fostering economic development.

Secondly, the second-hand clothing market makes substantial contributions to GDP growth and government revenues. In 2021 alone, the industry delivered government revenues estimated at US$419 million across East Africa. These revenues are without a doubt used to fuel public sector development, improve infrastructure, and provide essential services for our citizens.

Thirdly, the availability of second-hand clothing enhances consumer welfare. It provides affordable options for those on low incomes, helping to ease poverty and improve living standards. At the same time, it appeals to the rising African middle class, offering them quality clothing at affordable prices. It is a choice that benefits both the economically vulnerable and those aspiring to improve their lives.

Should the aforementioned grounds not feel sufficient, I will share two more grounds as follows:

It is crucial to dispel the misconception that a growing second-hand clothing industry undermines domestic textile production. In fact, let me tell you what could happen when second-hand clothing is suppressed; cheaper garment trade in other parts of the world, such as China will benefit.

By supporting the second-hand clothing industry, we stimulate our own textile production, using recyclable materials and fostering innovation. This will not only create a thriving domestic textile industry but also contribute to job creation and economic growth.

Lastly, the second-hand clothing sector plays a pivotal role in our journey towards a more sustainable future. It helps East Africa transition to a circular economy, reducing carbon emissions and minimizing waste. By embracing the second-hand clothing industry, we are taking concrete steps towards building an environmentally conscious and responsible society.

To maximize the potential of the SHC sector, I, Teresiah Wairimu on behalf of members of the Mitumba Consortium Association of Kenya, and the millions of Kenyans who fend for their families through SHC, propose the following policy recommendations:

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Number 1: significant investment should be made in supply-chain infrastructure for SHC, including the expansion of sorting centers in strategic locations. This will enhance efficiency and ensure that the sector operates at its full potential.

Number 2: we must invest in improving facilities for collecting and reusing clothing. By establishing effective systems for recycling and reusing textiles, we can minimize waste and create a more sustainable industry.

Number 3: let us incentivize private sector investment in recycling by providing favorable conditions and support for businesses committed to sustainable practices. This will further enhance the circular production model and ensure a greener future for our region.

Number 4: it is essential for policymakers to recognize that the expansion of domestic textile production and the growth of the second-hand clothing industry are not mutually exclusive. We should build upon the strong foundation we already have—the experienced and thriving used clothing sector—and leverage it to support and stimulate our textile production.

And finally: Help me urge the EAC member-states to come together and collaborate in the development of the second-hand clothing industry across the region. By sharing knowledge, resources, and best practices, we can create a unified approach that maximizes the benefits of this sector for all our nations.

Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, and members of the Mitumba Consortium Association of Kenya, I conclude by saying; may we not succumb to the pressures of those who seek to restrict and undermine the second-hand clothing sector. Instead, let us embrace its potential and work together to create a prosperous, sustainable, and inclusive future for East Africa.

By supporting the second-hand clothing industry, we are not only fostering economic growth and job creation but also championing environmental responsibility and consumer welfare. Together, let us lead the transition from fast fashion to a circular production model and pave the way for a brighter tomorrow. Thank you and God bless Mitumba.

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