The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has warned mitumba traders and importers against bringing prohibited second-hand clothing into the country following the interception of a consignment containing used undergarments.

In a statement issued on Thursday, October 22, the bureau said its officers intercepted the restricted items during an inspection conducted on Wednesday, October 21, and urged importers to ensure their consignments comply with Kenya’s standards.

KEBS listed used briefs, brassieres, camisoles, socks, stockings and swimwear among the prohibited textiles, warning that it would continue enforcing regulations governing imported second-hand clothing and footwear.

“KEBS inspects all imported used clothing and footwear consignments, with 100 per cent inspection being undertaken to ensure compliance with applicable standards,” the bureau stated.

“Importers are reminded to ensure that consignments do not contain prohibited used textiles, including briefs, brassieres, camisoles, socks, stockings and swimwear,” It added.

The ban on used undergarments has been in place since 2004, when the matter was raised in Parliament amid concerns about potential health risks linked to imported second-hand underwear.

Lawmakers at the time expressed concerns about potential health complications linked to wearing imported second-hand underwear, including fungal infections, prompting government action to restrict the items.

KEBS says the ban is aimed at addressing hygiene and public health concerns associated with clothing that comes into direct contact with the body, especially sensitive areas.

Beyond undergarments, other prohibited items include used nightwear such as pajamas, nightdresses and nightgowns, as well as hospital wear and used bath towels.

The enforcement measures come as Kenya continues to import large quantities of second-hand clothing, commonly known as mitumba, from international markets.

Key sources of the country’s second-hand clothing are China, which accounted for more than half of Kenya’s mitumba shipments in 2023, the United States, Canada, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, Germany, Poland, Lithuania and India.

KEBS said it would maintain enforcement of the standards governing imported used textiles to safeguard consumers and ensure all consignments meet the country’s requirements.