Instagram News You Need to Know Right Now

If you spend any time online, you’ve probably heard about Instagram. It’s the photo‑and‑video app that lets people share moments, sell products, and discover trends in a flash. On Voice of Africa Daily we bring you the latest updates so you can stay ahead without scrolling forever.

What’s New on Instagram This Week?

Instagram just rolled out a few features that are already shaking up how creators work. The new "Collab" button lets two accounts co‑author posts, which is perfect for African musicians teaming up across borders. Reels now supports longer videos up to 90 seconds, giving storytellers more room to showcase culture, fashion and food.

Another tweak is the "Shop Tab" redesign. Brands can now add a quick checkout button right inside the app, cutting the steps between spotting a product and buying it. Small businesses in Lagos or Nairobi are already seeing faster sales because of this.

How to Make Instagram Work for You

First, pick a clear theme. Whether you’re posting about local news, music, or street food, keep the visual style consistent so followers know what to expect. Use native stickers like polls and quizzes in Stories – they boost engagement by up to 30% according to recent data.

Second, master hashtags. A mix of broad tags (#Instagram, #Travel) and niche ones (#CapeTownEats, #NaijaMusic) helps your posts reach both global audiences and local fans. Check the "Explore" page regularly to see which tags are trending in Africa right now.

Third, protect your account. Turn on two‑factor authentication and review app permissions weekly. POPIA‑compliant users should also read Instagram’s privacy policy updates – they often add new data‑use clauses that affect how you can target ads.

Finally, think about timing. Posts published between 6 pm and 9 pm local time usually get the most likes in major African cities, because people are winding down after work and scrolling on their phones.

Instagram isn’t just a place to share selfies; it’s a powerful tool for business, activism, and community building. By staying on top of feature releases, using smart hashtags, and keeping your account secure, you can turn casual followers into loyal fans.

Got a question about Instagram? Drop a comment below or hit us up on our own Instagram page. We love hearing how African creators are shaping the platform, and we’ll keep bringing you fresh updates as soon as they drop.