The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has warned mitumba traders against bringing prohibited second-hand clothing into the country after intercepting a consignment containing used undergarments.
In a statement on Thursday, October 22, KEBS said its officers intercepted the prohibited items during an inspection on Wednesday, October 21, and directed importers to ensure their consignments do not contain restricted clothing.
The bureau listed used briefs, brassieres, camisoles, socks, stockings and swimwear among the prohibited items, warning that it will continue with its crackdown to protect consumers and ensure compliance with national standards.
“KEBS inspects all imported used clothing and footwear consignments, with 100 per cent inspection being undertaken to ensure compliance with applicable standards,” KEBS stated.
A man carrying a bale of imported second-hand clothes, commonly referred to as Mitumba, at the Port of Mombasa.
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Mitumba Bales Kenya
“Importers are reminded to ensure that consignments do not contain prohibited used textiles, including briefs, brassieres, camisoles, socks, stockings and swimwear,” it added.
The restriction on used undergarments dates back at least to 2004, when the issue was raised in Parliament, prompting the government to impose the ban.
During a parliamentary debate, concerns were raised over the possible health risks associated with imported used underwear, including fungal infections.
The restrictions are aimed at addressing hygiene and public health concerns associated with clothing that comes into direct contact with the body, particularly sensitive parts of the body.
Other prohibited items include used nightwear, such as pyjamas, nightdresses and nightgowns, as well as hospital wear and used bath towels.
Kenya imports most of its mitumba clothes from overseas, with China accounting for more than half of the shipments in 2023, alongside suppliers from Europe, Asia and North America.
Other major suppliers include the United States, Canada, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, Germany, Poland, Lithuania and India.
Kenyans seeking to import mitumba from overseas are always required by the government to register and provide business details, their KRA PIN, contact information and warehouse location.
The entrance to the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) headquarters in Nairobi
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KEBS