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Residents of Ruiru in Kiambu county decried the high cost of living, saying it  has dampened their Christmas mood.

Unlike previous years where Kenyans engage in all manner of flare and pomp activities, the residents claimed the state of the economy has made them to forgo the celebrations.

While most of them have avoided travelling upcountry due to huge costs, others said they have had to do without buying gifts and new clothes and unnecessary travels.

Speaking at St Georges Primary School in Ruiru town during a food donation event that saw over 600 locals receive foodstuff, the locals called on the government to be mindful of Kenyans’ sufferings.

“I have gone without food for two days and were it not for my neighbours, I don’t know what I would be eating with my six children. The situation is bad, so many people are sleeping hungry,” Florence Wangui, 35, told journalists.

They urged the government to stop further increment of taxes and scrap  some to increase the purchasing power of Kenyans, most of whom are jobless, desperate and poor.

The beneficiaries called on other able Kenyans to share with the less fortunate to spread love.

“Like the December Babies have done, our plea to other Kenyans is – please help those in need during this season and after,” Faith Muthoni, a beneficiary said.

“The government should reduce the cost of living so that we can afford food stuff such as cooking flour. When you are hire to wash clothes, you are paid Sh300 which can barely meet our needs,” said Elizabeth Mukuhi, a resident.

Solomon Irungu, one of the organisers of the December Babies charity event said 600 residents turned up for the event.