The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has on Tuesday banned the importation of second-hand clothes popularly known as mitumba from countries that are hit with Coronavirus pandemic.
“As a precautionary measure, KEBS wish to notify the general public and all Importers of used garments (Mitumba) and used shoes that the importation of used garments and used footwear is hereby prohibited with immediate effect, until further notice,” said KEBS.
“This is pursuant to the declaration of Coronavirus/Covid-19 as a global pandemic and in line with the requirements of the applicable Kenya Standards, the codes of practice for inspection and acceptance of used garments and used footwear, that no consignment of mitumba shall be accepted from countries experiencing an epidemic,” said the standards body.
Last week, the Government the importation of second-hand clothes saying the move was aimed at safeguarding the health of Kenyans.
Get breaking news on your Mobile as-it-happens. SMS ‘NEWS’ to 20153
Industrialisation CS Betty Maina said the move was intended to cushion Kenyans from the deadly coronavirus pandemic adding that the directive would help boost the local textile industry which has faced competition from cheap second-hand clothes that are imported.
Elsewhere, traders at the famous Gikomba market in Nairobi County are decrying low business as it remains deserted with Kenyans staying away in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.