Embu, Friday, February 27, 2026 KNA Samuel Waititu

Conflict rivalry between mitumba wholesalers and retailers

A business rivalry has emerged in Embu Town between small-scale secondhand clothes (mitumba) traders and large wholesale outlets over unfair competition and practices.

The conflict revolves around allegations by the small traders that the wholesale outlets were undercutting them by selling their wares to clients at retail prices instead of selling in bulk to other traders.

Angered with the alleged loss of business, the small-scale trader sought the intervention of the country government that six days ago issued a statement requiring the large shops to either stick to wholesale business or shut down within seven days.

The owners of the five major wholesale outlets then moved to court to overturn the orders of the county government, terming the directive as unfair and discriminatory. The court is yet to make a ruling.

In a press statement issued by their advocate Nyambura Maina, the wholesalers questioned why they were being punished for offering affordable goods to the people.

“We are wondering how selling goods at a lower price has now become a crime. This is called competition and is what keeps prices down for the ordinary mwananchi,” said Maina.

The traders exuded confidence of winning the legal battle, noting that their licenses allow them to either sell in bulk or in retail.

Staff from the affected wholesalers expressed fears that the directive by the county government would lead to mass layoffs if they are forced to shut down.

“These shops have employed many young people who now face an uncertain future should the county government effect the directive,” said one of the staffers Brenda Githinji.

On the other hand, the retailers have maintained their hardline position, argiung that wholesalers must cease retail activities as directed by the county government.

Led by Chair James Njiru, the traders said they had been robbed of their business by the wholesalers making it impossible for them to continue with their trade.

“Unlike before, paying rent and putting a meal on the table currently has become a tall order, since we have been surrounded by these shops that have taken all our customers,” said another local trader, Dianah Wanja.

Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) Embu Branch Chair Mugo Mate faulted the county government for making an unlawful decision contrary to the constitution that allows every Kenyan to live, work and invest anywhere in the country.