KEBS Lists Banned Mitumba Items in Fresh Warning

The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has warned mitumba importers against bringing prohibited second-hand clothing into the country after officers intercepted a shipment containing used undergarments.

In a notice issued on Thursday, October 22, 2026, the agency said the items were discovered during an inspection conducted a day earlier. It urged traders to ensure that all consignments comply with Kenya’s standards before they are shipped into the country.

According to Kenyans.co.ke, KEBS identified several categories of used textiles that importers must keep out of their consignments.

The prohibited items include used briefs, brassieres, camisoles, socks, stockings and swimwear.

Other restricted textiles include used nightwear, such as pyjamas, nightdresses and nightgowns, as well as hospital wear and used bath towels, according to reports on the restrictions.

The warning means traders dealing in second-hand clothing must carefully check the contents of their bales and shipments to avoid including items that do not meet the applicable import requirements.

KEBS said it inspects all imported used clothing and footwear consignments, with 100 per cent inspection conducted to assess compliance with relevant standards.

The agency reiterated that importers are responsible for ensuring their consignments do not contain prohibited textiles, adding that enforcement would continue to protect consumers and uphold national standards.

What the Warning Means for Mitumba Traders

The latest notice is a reminder that the restrictions apply to specific categories of second-hand textiles, rather than a blanket ban on all mitumba clothing.

Traders importing ordinary second-hand garments must still comply with the relevant inspection, registration and import requirements. They should also ensure that their overseas suppliers understand Kenya’s prohibited-item list before preparing shipments.

According to The Kenya Times, the latest warning followed the interception of a consignment containing used undergarments during routine inspection.

KEBS did not publicly disclose the quantity of prohibited items intercepted or identify the importer involved in the reported incident.

The enforcement reminder comes as second-hand clothing continues to support livelihoods across Kenya, from importers and wholesalers to market traders and small retailers.

The trade also provides affordable clothing for many households, making compliance with import rules an important concern for businesses operating in the sector.

Importers are therefore advised to verify the contents of their shipments before dispatch and ensure that all goods meet the applicable Kenyan standards.

The latest warning underscores KEBS’ position that consignments must comply with the rules governing used textiles, even when they contain large quantities of otherwise permitted second-hand clothing.

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