Ruto Breaks Silence On Mitumba Ban Claims, Reveals Truth Behind Kenya's Second-Hand Clothes Debate

President William Ruto has moved to settle the growing debate surrounding the future of second-hand clothing in Kenya, firmly denying claims that his government intends to ban the trade.

Speaking on Tuesday, January 20, the president emphasized that no policy proposal exists to outlaw the importation or sale of second-hand clothes, popularly known as mitumba.

Ruto noted that second-hand clothing is an essential part of the lives of millions of Kenyans who rely on it for affordable and accessible fashion.

He highlighted the sector’s crucial role in supporting a vast informal economy, which provides livelihoods to traders, transporters, tailors, and market vendors across the country.

According to the president, suggestions that the government would abruptly dismantle this important source of income are both misleading and unfounded.

While the administration is committed to strengthening local manufacturing and boosting Kenya’s textile and leather industries, Ruto clarified that this objective does not require eliminating the mitumba trade.

Instead, he proposed a balanced approach that allows local production and second-hand clothing businesses to coexist, emphasizing that economic transformation must be inclusive and mindful of ordinary citizens’ realities.

The president also addressed how discussions about industrial growth have sometimes been misinterpreted or deliberately distorted, creating unnecessary public fear.

He urged Kenyans to rely on official government communication rather than rumors or speculation.

Ruto assured traders and consumers alike that no directive has been issued to disrupt the second-hand clothing market, and that the government remains committed to protecting livelihoods.

At the same time, he reaffirmed his administration’s plans to expand local industries through incentives, improved infrastructure, and better market access.

The long-term goal, he explained, is to create more jobs, enhance the competitiveness of Kenyan-made products, and promote sustainable growth—without punishing existing sectors that support millions of Kenyans.

Ruto further encouraged constructive national dialogue on economic reforms, calling on stakeholders to engage responsibly and avoid politicizing sensitive livelihood issues.

He stressed that sustainable development requires gradual transitions rather than abrupt policy shifts that could harm vulnerable communities.

By clarifying the government’s stance, President Ruto sought to calm anxieties among both traders and consumers, reiterating that second-hand clothing remains a legitimate and vital part of Kenya’s economy.

He concluded by assuring Kenyans that his administration will continue pursuing policies that safeguard livelihoods while steadily building a stronger, more self-reliant national economy.