Secondhand textiles have become a vital part of the Kenyan economy in recent years, offering affordable clothes to millions of people. But information about the import and sale of secondhand clothes has led to confusion and misperception among consumers and industry players alike. In response, the Kenyan government can also take a heavy-handed approach, urging stricter measures against misleading information.
In Kenya, the secondhand clothing industry, commonly known as “mitumba,” is indeed a vibrant sector with considerable economic potential, particularly benefiting low-income communities. This prevents waste, creates jobs and encourages sustainable fashion. Despite being crucial, the field has received undeserved debasement by virtue of speculation and misinformation, which are contrary to its advantages.
Textiles
Perhaps the most common misconception is that secondhand clothes are dirty or unsafe. This allegation has been widely circulated as well but lacks credible evidence and ignores the extensive processes involved in sorting and sanitizing these garments. There are laws to ensure better clothing meets health and safety standards — specifically for secondhand clothes imported into the country.
Aware of the potential of this sector, and the confusion some of these myths bring, Kenya’s government has taken steps to debunk these myths. Authorities have called on members of the public to trust fact, and not succumb to unfounded accusations. About the Textiles Recycling Association (TRA) argue that consumer education and awareness campaigns are needed to instill the true value of secondhand textiles into the mindset of consumers, as well as highlighting the positive impact of textile reuse on the wider economy and environment.
At FFD Industries we believe secondhand textiles contribute towards both economic growth and sustainability in Kenya. As a textiles company, our ethos is rooted in providing high quality textiles solutions for the purpose of helping the industry, through sustainable sourcing, recycling and innovation. We aim to address misinformation as it is vital for the ongoing success of this sector, as it paves the way to informed decisions benefiting all involved stakeholders.
The Kenyan government’s attempt to combat misinformation marries the global shift towards sustainability in the fashion industry. Kenya is responding to the needs for affordable clothing that is a growing concern for most in the country and the campaign entailed in this is capable of reducing waste and putting it to good use in contributing to the circular economy.
It is vital, however for the secondhand textiles industry to continue to flourish, to promote a more nuanced understanding of the benefits of secondhand textiles and how it plays into countless circular economies, through all that make it, grow it, sell it and buy it together. And as more people become aware of the importance of secondhand clothing, the theory will perpetuate glass, create jobs, and part to a more sustainable future.
In short, the Kenyan government needs to be called to order on the misinformation surrounding secondhand textiles. It helps to protect the growth of the industry and encourages savvy choices, as well as protects customers’ economic and environmental benefits from second clothing. We believe in honest communication, mindful sourcing, and forward-thinking solutions, and we continue to strive to support the growth of the secondhand textile sector in Kenya and beyond.