According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), a review of the period between 2016 and 2020 showed that Kenyan traders spent 485 billion shillings to import 751.3 tons of second-hand clothes.
Additionally, Google search trends reveal that there has been a 160% increase in two terms, ‘savings sense’ and ‘thrift stores’, revealing Kenyans’ interest in upcycling. and recycling.
Data released by Google on the occasion of World Earth Day 2022 indicates that Mombasa County is the number one county in Kenya with the highest number of searches related to mitumba.
“Since the onset of the pandemic in 2020, new data from Google Search Trends reveals that Kenyans have taken a particular interest in searching for ‘Thrifting’; the buying and selling of second-hand items that have been lightly used.
“The global fashion industry accounts for 10% of carbon emissions; therefore, Kenya’s interest in upcycling and recycling items is a win for the planet,” Sharon Machira, head of communications and public affairs for Google in Kenya, said.
Used items are mostly shipped through the port of Mombasa and via Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi.
The thrift store concept has become a necessity due to the economy while for others it’s a fun way to track down the unusual.
Following the growing interest in mitumba In Kenya, Thrift with Google makes it easy for shoppers to locate thrift stores by learning about the latest thrift store trends, while small business operators have the benefit of listing their stores on Google Maps for better visibility.
Thrift has also led to a surge in Thrift content development on YouTube, where thrift store owners have channels to promote their wares.
Google for Small Business
To support small businesses, Google has launched a Small Business Portal, a one-stop solution to help small businesses find the solutions and guidance they need to connect and grow.
The portal allows businesses to gain increased visibility, with customers easily finding the products they are looking for.
World Earth Day reminds humanity to protect and safeguard Mother Earth and her species, in order to make the Earth a better place for generations to come. April 22, 2022 will mark the 52nd anniversary of Earth Day.
