Business

Gachagua Goes After Chinese Traders Infiltrating Mitumba Businessin Nairobi

2 min read

2 months ago Scott

CP Party Leader Rigathi Gachagua has vowed to relocate foreign business operators from the mitumba (second-hand clothes) sector to Nairobi’s Industrial Area if he becomes president.

Speaking at the DCP headquarters in Nairobi on Thursday, Gachagua expressed concern about the growing number of foreigners, particularly Chinese traders, entering the mitumba business.

While welcoming foreign investment in Kenya, Gachagua emphasized that the mitumba market is a vital source of income for small local entrepreneurs. He suggested that foreigners should focus on manufacturing rather than competing in the second-hand clothes trade.

“We welcome foreigners to do business in Kenya, but they should establish factories in industrial areas to produce goods. Our people can then sell these goods, creating jobs without taking over local markets,” he said.

Gachagua was clear that his administration would not allow foreigners to dominate the mitumba and retail business in Nairobi. He argued that protecting local traders is crucial for the city’s economy.

He also criticized what he called plans by President William Ruto and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja to move bus stages serving Mount Kenya routes outside the Central Business District. Gachagua warned that his government would keep the bus stops in their current locations to benefit city residents.

The DCP leader made these remarks while welcoming former Nominated Senator Millicent Omanga to the party. He praised her leadership and commitment to Nairobi residents, adding that few current city leaders, such as Senator Edwin Sifuna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, could be trusted to serve residents effectively.

Gachagua concluded by revealing his vision for the DCP to become the majority party in Parliament after the 2027 elections.