How The Future Of The Apparel and Footwear Industry In Kenya Looks Like

Kenya’s apparel and footwear industry is poised for significant transformation, influenced by global trends, domestic policy shifts, and the enduring presence of the mitumba (second-hand clothing) sector. This period offers an opportunity to harmonize the growth of local manufacturing with the realities of consumer demand and economic livelihoods.

For decades, Kenya’s apparel industry has been shaped by two key sectors: homegrown textile manufacturing and the second-hand clothing (SHC) trade, known as Mitumba. Both have played important roles in providing clothing options for diverse market segments, creating jobs, and contributing to economic growth.

Yet, concerns have arisen over whether the growth of the Mitumba trade poses a risk to the growth of domestic manufacturing. Some argue that prioritizing domestic production is the only path to achieving Kenya’s Vision 2030 and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

There is no doubt that the mitumba sector is a cornerstone of Kenya’s economy. Employing approximately two million people, it accounts for about 10% of the country’s extended labor force.

Read Also: Why The Mitumba Sector Cannot Be Wished Away

This industry not only provides employment but also generates substantial tax revenue. Its affordability ensures that a vast majority of Kenyans, across various income levels, have access to quality clothing.

However, the dominance of mitumba imports presents challenges to the local textile industry. Kenya’s once-thriving textile sector has seen a decline, with only a few large mills remaining from the 52 that operated in the 1980s. The influx of second-hand clothing has been cited as a factor in this downturn, making it difficult for local manufacturers to compete on price and variety.

Efforts are underway to rejuvenate the local apparel industry. Initiatives like the “Buy Kenya, Build Kenya” campaign aim to encourage the consumption of locally made products. Proposals have been made to require mitumba sellers to stock at least 10% of local apparel, aiming to integrate domestic products into the existing market structure. Such measures seek to balance the benefits of the mitumba trade with the need to bolster local manufacturing.

Kenya’s participation in international trade agreements, such as the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), has facilitated the export of locally manufactured garments to markets like the United States. Brands such as KikoRomeo and Suave Kenya have gained international recognition, showcasing the potential of Kenyan fashion on global platforms. These developments indicate a growing capacity for local production to meet both domestic and international demand.

Sustainability is also becoming a focal point in the industry. The mitumba trade contributes to a circular economy by promoting the reuse of clothing, reducing waste, and lowering the environmental impact of fashion consumption. Simultaneously, local manufacturers are increasingly adopting sustainable practices, such as ethical sourcing and upcycling, to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.

Looking ahead to 2037, the Kenyan apparel and footwear industry stands at a crossroads. The challenge lies in fostering a symbiotic relationship between the mitumba sector and local manufacturing. Policies that support domestic production, while acknowledging the economic and social importance of the second-hand clothing trade, will be crucial.

Read Also: Why the Kenyan Mitumba Sector Should Be Supported To Grow Further

Join the Mitumba Consortium Association of Kenya (MCAK) this Thursday as they launch yet another report; A Future Look at the Apparel and Footwear Industry in Kenya (2022-2037) . The report will be live on https://youtube.com/@mitumbaconsortiumassociationke?si=4gIzpcUnHvTtD-cS