Nairobi, Jan. 1 -- President William Ruto says while the country has made encouraging progress across many sectors taming the rising cost of living remains a big challenge.

In his New Year message to Kenyans, Dr Ruto cited the impact of global economic dynamics that have adversely affected the country.

At the same time, President Ruto said the economic recovery has been compounded by the war in Europe, rising interest rates in America, and the unfortunate effects of climate change that occasioned the most severe drought in 40 years.

"All these factors slowed down our economic performance, resulting in increased commodity prices. Fertilizers and cereals experienced significant price hikes, contributing to the rise in food prices and the...