Industry, Trade and Investment Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria on Monday, November 7, shared easy ways Kenyans could make some money as many struggle with harsh economic times.
Kuria challenged Kenyans to venture into the textile industry and in return would get assistance from him for it to be a success.
“Are you looking for a profitable venture? Just approach your local primary or secondary school, church, hospital or County Government and convince them to give you the order to make their uniforms. Then see Me I help you with Machines, fabric, Space and working capital,” he stated.
Since his appointment, the former Gatundu South Member of Parliament has rooted for the textile industry, pledging to do whatever it takes to revive the sector.
Kenyans on Twitter applauded him for this move and stated that they were ready to take the challenge.
“I agree with you CS. Don't kill uniforms because of the downstream business. However, push the big players to manufacture for export. I propose, for every industry, have a double-edge strategy. Growing big players and on the other hand, bringing in and nurturing MSMEs,” stated Christine Maina.
“I would like to create an affordable Kenyan clothing brand,yaani label ya mwananchi. Give me an appointment,” Ngal Yuka posed.
“I am ready to help a working group of women. We easily can get orders from schools,” stated Peter Kangethe.
“Thank you CS, now you have started thinking like me! There are plenty of opportunities out there especially in manufacturing,” Njenga DM noted.
Kuria had previously promised to create five million job opportunities in the local textile industry.
Speaking during a media interview, Kuria pointed out that Kenyan clothing factories had very few workers.
He said Kenya had 50,000 workers as compared to Bangladesh with five million.
"By manufacturing here, I will create the same. I will create five million jobs within the textile industry," he stated.
He also clarified his remarks on the Mitumba business where he left Kenyans worried after stating that the government would ban the popular second hand clothes.
He stated that his words were taken out of context by detractors aimed at intimidating him. He emphasized that his ministry would endeavor to ensure all Kenyans are able to afford decent new clothes.
“We have problems with our media here, we will continue praying for them so that they can be able to report things properly," he stated.
According to Kuria, poverty and lack of access to decent clothes push Kenyans to buy mitumba clothes.
