How to Start Mitumba Business Kenya
Mitumba is a term used in Kenya to refer to the business of buying and selling secondhand clothing. This type of business is common in Kenya and is an important source of income for many people.
Clothing sold in mitumba markets is frequently imported from other countries, most notably the United States and Europe. Individuals or organizations typically donate these clothes, which are then shipped to Kenya and sold in local markets.
One of the primary benefits of the mitumba business is that it provides affordable clothing to people who otherwise could not afford new clothes. This is especially important in Kenya, where many people live on low incomes and cannot afford to buy new clothes.
In addition to providing affordable clothing, the mitumba business also provides employment for many people in Kenya. This is especially important in a country where unemployment is a major issue. The mitumba business provides jobs for people who might not have other employment opportunities, and this can help to reduce poverty and improve the standard of living for many people.
Despite its numerous advantages, the mitumba business is not without its drawbacks. One of the most significant challenges is a lack of industry regulation, which can result in unsafe and low–quality clothing being sold in markets. This can be hazardous to consumers, who may end up purchasing clothing that is hazardous to their health.
Another challenge is the environmental impact of the mitumba business. The shipping of large quantities of clothing from other countries to Kenya generates a significant amount of carbon emissions, which can contribute to climate change.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does it Cost to Start Mitumba Business in Kenya
The cost of starting a mitumba business in Kenya can range from Ksh 10,000 per bale to Ksh 100,000 for depending on the specific quality of the bales. It is recommended that you carefully plan and budget for all of the costs involved to ensure that your business is successful.
Where Can I sell my Mitumba?
There are several places where you can sell your mitumba in Kenya. Some of the most common options include:
Local markets:
There are many local markets in Kenya where you can sell your mitumba. These markets are typically located in cities and towns, and are a popular place for people to buy and sell secondhand clothing. E.g. Gikomba, Githurai
Online platforms:
There are also several online platforms where you can sell your mitumba, such as Jiji,Facebook Groups, Pigiame. These platforms can help you reach a wider audience, and can make it easier for customers to find and purchase your clothing.
Retail stores:
If you have a large quantity of mitumba, you may also be able to sell it to retail stores. Many stores in Kenya sell secondhand clothing, and they may be interested in purchasing your clothing to resell in their stores.
In addition to these options, you can also consider selling your mitumba directly to individual customers. This could involve setting up a stall at a local market or other public place, or even going door-to-door to sell your clothing.
Overall, there are many options for selling your mitumba in Kenya, and the best option for you will depend on the specific details of your business and the type of clothing you have for sale. It is recommended that you research the different options and choose the one that is most suited to your needs.
How much does a bale of Mitumba cost in Gikomba?
Some of the Bale Prices are as follows:
- Ladies Jumpsuits- Ksh 30,000
- Palazzo Pants Ksh- 35,000
- Ladies Poly silk Dresses- Ksh 40,000
- Ladies Denin Dresses- Ksh 25,000
- Capri Pants- Ksh 8,200
- Men Cotton Shirts- Ksh 30,000
- Men Khakis- Ksh 20,000
- Fleece Jackets- Ksh 10,000
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How to Import Mitumba Bales in Kenya
To import Mitumba bales into Kenya, you will need to follow a specific set of procedures and requirements. Here are the general steps you will need to follow:
1. Contact the Ministry of Trade and Industry to obtain the necessary licenses and permits for importing secondhand clothing. This will typically involve completing and submitting an application, as well as providing information about the clothing you plan to import and the countries you will be importing it from.
2. Obtain a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) from the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) for the clothing you plan to import. This certificate verifies that the clothing meets the required safety and quality standards in Kenya.
3. Arrange for the clothing to be shipped to Kenya. This will typically involve working with a freight forwarder or other transportation company to handle the logistics of the shipment.
Once the clothing arrives in Kenya, you will need to clear it through customs. This will involve paying any applicable duties and taxes, as well as providing the necessary documentation, such as the CoC and import licenses.
After the clothing has been cleared through customs, you can begin selling it in the local markets.
It is important to note that the specific requirements and procedures for importing Mitumba bales into Kenya may differ depending on the specifics of your shipment as well as the laws and regulations in effect at the time.
To ensure that you are following the correct procedures, you should consult with the relevant government agencies and seek professional advice.
In conclusion, the mitumba business is an important source of income for many people in Kenya, providing affordable clothing and employment opportunities. However, it also faces challenges, including a lack of regulation and its environmental impact.
To address these challenges, the Kenyan government should consider implementing regulations to ensure the safety and quality of the clothing sold in the markets, and should also look for ways to reduce the environmental impact of the mitumba business.
