Children in Somanya and surrounding communities were treated to an unforgettable festive holiday experience as the Plau Divisional Chief, Nene Djaba Agblezee IV, in collaboration with the Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Awatey, successfully hosted the maiden edition of the Soma Kids Fest.

The first-of-its-kind children’s festival in the area was held as part of the 🎄 and New Year festivitieson, at the Center 1 Recreational Centre in Somanya, drawing hundreds of excited children and parents from across the Yilo Krobo Municipality.

The event, which ran from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., was designed to provide a safe, fun-filled and educational space for children during the festivities.

Soma Kids Fest featured a wide range of recreational and creative activities tailored to children of all ages. Highlights included a swimming pool experience, bouncy castles, wet and dry slides, trampolines, face painting, cotton candy, drawing and painting competitions, and a vibrant talent show that showcased the creativity and confidence of the young participants.

Organisers also hinted at the inclusion of additional activities in future editions to expand the experience.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the festival was the provision of free food, drinks and transportation for participating children, ensuring that access was not limited by financial constraints.

According to the organisers, the initiative was intentionally structured to be inclusive, giving every child the opportunity to enjoy the festive season regardless of background.

Speaking at the event, Rita Awatey, the Eastern Regional Minister, commended Nene Djaba Agblezee IV for initiating the programme and reaffirmed her support for child-focused community development.

“I want to acknowledge Nene Djaba Agblezee IV for this initiative. He started this, and I am only supporting him,” she said. “Sometimes children do not have anywhere to go to celebrate Christmas, so we are doing this to offer them a place to enjoy themselves. This will not be the last. Our chiefs are doing very well, and this chief has done well. Others should follow this example.”

The Minister also encouraged the children to take their education seriously, urging them to balance fun with discipline.

She praised the organisers for their commitment and organisation, noting that such initiatives play a crucial role in nurturing responsible future citizens.

Nene Djaba Agblezee IV, addressing the gathering, explained the motivation behind the festival. He noted that while adults often dominate festive celebrations, children are frequently overlooked.

“We adults always take over the Christmas and New Year festivities,” he said. “This year, I decided to intentionally include the children, and the Regional Minister kindly supported the idea. Through activities like swimming, bouncy castles, dancing competitions and various games, the children are learning while having fun.”

The Plau Divisional Chief emphasized that Soma Kids Fest was open to all children within the Yilo Krobo area, reinforcing its community-wide focus.

He also used the platform to advise children to remain committed to their studies and encouraged parents to remain attentive during the holidays to ensure their wards balance recreation with learning.

Parents and community members present praised the initiative, describing it as timely, impactful and well-organised. Many expressed hope that Soma Kids Fest would become an annual event and a model for similar child-centered programmes across the Eastern Region.

With strong collaboration between traditional leadership and government, the successful maiden edition of Soma Kids Fest has set a promising foundation for future editions aimed at promoting child welfare, education and community unity.