This archive report was first published on 3 August 2020.
As the country continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, the Mitumba Association of Kenya is urging the Ministry of Industrialization, Trade and Enterprise Development to publish protocols for the resumption of the importation and sale of second-hand clothes, as directed by President Uhuru Kenyatta on July 6, 2020.
The association, which represents nearly 2 million players in the Mitumba industry, has expressed concern over the delay by the Ministry in implementing the President's directive, which has resulted in the loss of livelihoods for many traders.
According to the Association's chairperson, Ms. Teresia Njenga, the industry players had submitted a proposal to the Ministry in early June, which proposed to enhance health protocols at countries of origin and introduce additional health clearance measures upon arrival.
Ms. Njenga stated,
