Kenya aims to revitalize textile sector

The Kenyan government is ramping up efforts to revive its once-thriving textile industry, aiming to boost manufacturing and create jobs as part of its "Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda." Officials have been studying models like Benin's to revitalize the cotton, textile, and apparel sector, recognizing its potential to significantly contribute to Kenya's industrialization goals.

This push comes amidst discussions about the impact of the second-hand clothing trade, known locally as "mitumba." While mitumba provides affordable clothing and livelihoods for many, there are concerns it may hinder domestic textile production and contribute to environmental issues. By revitalizing the local industry, Kenya hopes to reduce its reliance on imported second-hand garments and strengthen its economy.

However, a recent study from Institute of Economic Affairs, Kenya, presented a couple of weeks ago, shows that these concerns seems unfounded.

Rather than competing, these industries complement each other — and if properly managed by authorities, this can lead to significantly higher long-term growth, the study suggests.

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