Tech lovers and social media users, brace yourselves! Meta is rolling out a wave of big changes across Facebook, Instagram, and Messenger by the end of August 2025 — and it’s set to transform the way you connect, shop, and create online.
First up, creators and businesses will love the revamped Professional Dashboard on web. With a sleek new home screen and simplified navigation, managing content, insights, and campaigns has never been easier.
For entrepreneurs running Facebook Shops, listen up: old checkout systems are being phased out. Make sure your shop is updated to keep sales flowing smoothly.
Advertisers are getting a boost too. Meta’s introducing “Value Rules” for campaigns to maximize targeting and ROI, plus a new scam ad reporting tool for brands under the Brand Rights Protection Program.
European users get extra perks with Meta’s AI-powered creative tools — everything from writing assistance and image generation to audio translation for Reels. Messenger is also getting playful, with custom stickers and AI characters for group chats.
Heads up: Facebook Group Chats will be paused starting August 29, so wrap up conversations now. And finally, all new video uploads on Facebook will automatically convert to Reels, bringing all your content into one dynamic format.
This is huge for content creators, brands, and everyday users alike — Meta is clearly doubling down on AI, Reels, and engagement tools. Don’t get left behind!
Two men in Indonesia’s Aceh province were publicly flogged 76 times each after being convicted of engaging in same-sex relations, an act prohibited under the region’s strict interpretation of Islamic sharia law.
According to officials, their initial punishment of 80 lashes was reduced by four, taking into account the four months they had already spent in detention.
Roslina A. Djalil, head of law enforcement for Banda Aceh’s sharia police, confirmed that the men were discovered in April after a member of the public reported suspicious activity at a park restroom. The same location later became the site of their public caning.
The incident has once again drawn international attention to Aceh’s enforcement of morality laws, which prescribe corporal punishment for acts deemed to contravene Islamic teachings, including adultery and same-sex relations.
Legal Troubles Cast Shadow Over National Team Prospects
Ghana’s veteran midfielder Thomas Partey, aged 32, is facing the very real possibility of being excluded from the Black Stars squad ahead of crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Mali. This development comes as Partey wrestles with serious legal charges that have brought his international career under intense scrutiny.
Charges and Judicial Timeline
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has formally charged Partey with five counts of rape involving two women and one count of sexual assault against a third woman, with the alleged incidents dating back to 2021 and 2022 during his time at Arsenal . On August 5, 2025, he appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court and was granted conditional bail; his next hearing is scheduled for September 2 at the Old Bailey .
Partey has publicly denied all allegations, with his lawyer affirming that he has “fully cooperated with the police and CPS” throughout the investigation, and “welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name” . Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of protecting the alleged victims and ensuring a fair trial.
Club Career Amid Turmoil
Despite the ongoing legal proceedings, Partey has resumed his club career. Having left Arsenal at the end of June 2025, he has since signed with Villarreal CF, making an appearance in their early campaign . His time at Arsenal was marked by both prominence and criticism — he played regularly while under investigation, which drew condemnation from fans and advocacy groups for sexual violence survivors.
National Team Uncertainty
Ghana coach Otto Addo is expected to soon announce the squad for matchday 7 and 8 of the World Cup qualifiers, with Ghana set to face Chad on September 4 in N’Djamena and Mali on September 8 in Accra . Ghana currently tops Group I after six games and is vying for qualification to the World Cup for the fifth time .
However, with his court appearance scheduled just 48 hours before the first qualifier, Partey’s inclusion in the squad remains doubtful . Reports from multiple Ghanaian outlets—including GhanaSoccernet, Adomonline, ModernGhana, and Pulse—indicate that Partey is likely to be left out of the squad due to his unresolved legal situation.
Footballing Impact and Broader Implications
Partey’s absence would deprive Ghana of a key midfield anchor. Since debuting for the Black Stars, he has earned over 50 caps, scored multiple goals, and played a pivotal role in past Africa Cup of Nations and World Cup campaigns.
Internationally, the situation underscores a broader tension: safeguarding legal due process versus the reputational and competitive implications for high-profile athletes facing criminal charges. As he awaits trial, the football world watches closely, aware that the outcomes could reshape part of his legacy — either a comeback through vindication or a career marred by controversy.
Conclusion
Thomas Partey’s involvement with the Black Stars for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers remains shrouded in uncertainty. As his legal process unfolds, both his club and national team futures hang in the balance. A decision by Otto Addo either way will reflect the delicate interplay between footballing priorities and ethical considerations, with Ghana’s World Cup ambitions potentially impacted by factors off the pitch.
Multiple award-winning Ghanaian artist, Kofi Kinaata, has opened up about the wave of grief and uncertainty sweeping across the country, admitting that the recent string of tragic events has left a deep mark on his heart and spirit.
From the heartbreaking loss of 16 children in recent accidents, to the passing of some of Ghana’s most respected and beloved musicians, and now the devastating helicopter crash that has claimed more lives, Kinaata says the weight of these moments is almost unbearable.
In a moving reflection shared with fans, the “Things Fall Apart” hitmaker confessed that the latest tragedy has struck him in a personal way. He revealed that he had been on that very same helicopter flight route twice earlier this year, a chilling thought that has been difficult for him to process.
“From the loss of 16 kids, to the passing of our legendary musicians, and now the helicopter tragedy, it’s been weighing heavily on my soul,” he said. “What makes it even harder is knowing I’ve been on that same flight twice this year. That thought just won’t leave me. Moments like these really make you question life… what’s the point, when it can all end in an instant?”
Kinaata admitted that while music has always been his outlet during difficult times, even his songwriting now seems to be overwhelmed with sorrow.
“I’ve tried to shake it off with music, but every song I write somehow turns into a sad one,” he revealed, adding that grief has a way of reshaping even the deepest forms of creativity.
This raw honesty from Kinaata has struck a chord with many Ghanaians who have also been grappling with the string of tragedies that have shaken the nation in recent weeks. Social media has been flooded with reactions, with fans and fellow artists expressing their support for the Takoradi-born musician while also sharing in his pain.
Beyond his music, Kofi Kinaata has often been described as a voice of conscience in Ghana’s entertainment industry — a poet who translates society’s joys and struggles into unforgettable lyrics. In this moment of national mourning, his words have once again captured the collective emotions of a people facing the reality of life’s unpredictability.
The passing of music icons has especially left a void in the Ghanaian creative space, a reminder that legends who shaped the country’s cultural landscape are not immune to time. For Kinaata, who grew up admiring many of these names, their absence is both a personal and professional loss.
The helicopter tragedy, however, has magnified that pain in ways few could have imagined. Survivors’ stories and the images emerging from the crash site have left many in shock, questioning the fragility of life. Kinaata’s revelation that he had personally flown the same route just months before makes the event all the more haunting.
Yet, even in his grief, the musician’s words echo a subtle message of reflection: life is fragile, and each day must be embraced with purpose.
Kinaata’s vulnerability and openness in moments like these stand as a reminder that fame and awards do not insulate even the strongest voices from pain. Instead, they underline his humanity — a man carrying the same fears, losses, and uncertainties as the fans who love his music.
As Ghana continues to mourn and heal, Kofi Kinaata’s emotional reflections may serve as both a comfort and a challenge: to honor the lives lost, to cherish every fleeting moment, and to find meaning even in the face of life’s most difficult questions.
The Ghana Police Service has swiftly moved to restore order in parts of the Savannah Region following recent communal clashes that unsettled peace in the area.
Reinforcement teams, working in close collaboration with the Ghana Armed Forces and other key security stakeholders, have been deployed to Sawla, Gbiniyiri, Giniri, and surrounding communities. Their presence is aimed at stabilizing the situation, deterring further violence, and ensuring the safety of residents.
Leading the national response is the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, who has joined a high-level delegation from the National Police Headquarters to directly assess conditions on the ground. The team is engaging with traditional leaders, opinion leaders, and community stakeholders to chart a path toward lasting peace.
In a strong appeal to the public, the Police Service has urged all factions to exercise restraint and cooperate fully with security officers working tirelessly to protect lives and property. Authorities emphasized that dialogue, not violence, remains the only path to sustainable peace in the Savannah Region.
The situation is being closely monitored, with security agencies assuring residents that every necessary measure will be taken to prevent any escalation of hostilities.
The Ministry of Defense, under the leadership of Hon. Ato Forson, has confirmed that the committee set up to investigate the recent Z-9 helicopter crash has officially begun its work.
The announcement follows growing public interest and calls for a transparent inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident, which claimed lives and raised questions about the safety of the country’s military aviation operations.
According to the Ministry, the committee has been tasked with conducting a comprehensive probe into the causes of the crash. Their mandate includes examining the mechanical integrity of the aircraft, assessing compliance with aviation safety protocols, reviewing the maintenance history of the Z-9 fleet, and analyzing operational conditions at the time of the incident.
In a bid to ensure credibility and accuracy, the investigation team will receive technical support from U.S. Air Force specialists. These international experts are expected to bring advanced expertise in accident reconstruction, flight data analysis, and aircraft safety assessments to strengthen the credibility of the final report.
Hon. Ato Forson emphasized the government’s commitment to transparency, noting that the committee has been given a strict 30-day deadline to conclude its work and submit a comprehensive report. “We owe it to the families affected, the Ghana Armed Forces, and the general public to uncover the truth behind this tragedy and to take corrective actions to prevent future occurrences,” he stated.
The Defense Ministry further assured the public that the outcome of the probe will not only address the immediate crash but also provide long-term recommendations to enhance the safety and efficiency of the Ghana Armed Forces’ air operations.
Meanwhile, the crash has reignited debates about the state of the military’s air fleet and the urgent need for modernization and stricter maintenance standards. Analysts suggest that the committee’s findings could significantly influence future procurement policies and investment in aviation safety infrastructure.
The Ministry has called on the public and media to exercise patience while the investigation proceeds, assuring that updates will be shared in due course.
Ghana’s global music scene has hit another milestone, and at the center of it stands the Bhim Nation President, Stonebwoy. The multi-award-winning dancehall and reggae superstar has officially become the first Ghanaian dancehall artiste to surpass 150 million streams on Spotify, cementing his legacy as one of Africa’s most influential voices in music.
Stonebwoy’s journey from Ashaiman to international stages has been marked by resilience, creativity, and a commitment to representing Ghana on the world map. With chart-topping hits, powerful collaborations, and a unique sound that blends dancehall, reggae, and Afrobeats, the artiste has built a loyal fanbase across continents.
Music analysts say this achievement is more than just numbers. It reflects the growing demand for authentic African music and highlights Stonebwoy’s role in pushing Ghanaian dancehall into the global spotlight. His consistency in delivering quality music and his ability to connect with both African and international audiences have been key to this success.
Fans across social media are already celebrating the milestone, calling it a victory not just for Stonebwoy, but for Ghanaian music as a whole.
With 150 million streams locked in, Stonebwoy shows no signs of slowing down. From sold-out concerts to chart-breaking singles, the Bhim boss is steadily building a legacy that transcends borders and inspires a new generation of African artistes.
Indeed, history has been made — and Stonebwoy is just getting started.
African combat sports just received a major boost as African Knockout (AKO), the continent’s premier mixed martial arts (MMA) promotion, has officially sealed a strategic broadcast partnership with SuperSport, one of Africa’s biggest sports networks.
Founded by Nigerian-born UFC world champion Kamaru “The Nigerian Nightmare” Usman, AKO has rapidly positioned itself as a homegrown powerhouse dedicated to nurturing African MMA talent. The new deal with SuperSport is expected to revolutionize how African fans experience combat sports, making AKO fights accessible to millions of households across the continent.
Speaking on the partnership, Kamaru Usman described the moment as a dream come true for African fighters and fans.
“When I started AKO, the vision was clear — to create a platform for African fighters to showcase their talent on the world stage. Partnering with SuperSport means we’re taking that vision to the next level. The whole continent will now witness the rise of Africa’s MMA champions,” he said.
SuperSport, already known for its dominance in broadcasting football, rugby, athletics, and boxing, sees this partnership as an opportunity to expand its combat sports portfolio while tapping into Africa’s growing MMA fan base.
Sports analysts believe the deal will not only give African fighters more exposure but also attract sponsors, investments, and training opportunities to elevate the sport across the continent.
The upcoming AKO season is set to feature electrifying matchups, intense rivalries, and homegrown fighters eager to prove themselves on the global stage. With SuperSport on board, MMA fans can look forward to world-class production, wider reach, and the thrill of witnessing Africa’s best fighters rise.
This deal could mark the beginning of a golden era for African MMA — with Kamaru Usman leading the charge.
Rap legend Okomfour Kwadee, celebrated for his classic hit “Ofie Nipa”, has raised alarms after reports surfaced that he remains institutionalized at a rehabilitation center despite showing positive signs of recovery. Fans and colleagues are demanding answers, questioning why he remains confined when healthy enough to be released.
The situation has sparked broader debate on how Ghana supports artists in mental health crises, pushing stakeholders to call for transparency and better management of celebrity welfare in times of vulnerability.
Yokohama/Accra — President John Dramani Mahama’s working visit to Japan for the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) yielded a cascade of strategic, game-changing developments for Ghana’s future.
At the summit, President Mahama chaired two high-level plenary sessions, successfully presenting Ghana’s bold vision to “reset and transform” its economy under the ambitious $10 billion “Big Push” infrastructure initiative. Ghana is unmistakably back on the global stage.
Key Outcomes of the Visit:
Volivo–Dorfor Adidome Bridge Revived Japan reaffirmed its commitment to support the iconic bridge across the Volta Lake—a linchpin for the Eastern Corridor road project under the “Big Push.” JICA will dispatch a technical team to assess funding and implementation strategies. Kumasi Inner-City Ringway Project Ghana and JICA are expanding infrastructure cooperation. Ministers confirmed that work on the Kumasi ring road—critical for easing traffic and bolstering economic activity in the Ashanti Region—will commence shortly. Toyota to Make Ghana Its West African Hub An agreement was signed with Toyota to expand operations in Ghana, positioning the nation as its hub for automobile assembly and regional distribution in West Africa. This sets the stage for job creation, skills transfer, and industrial growth. Groundbreaking Space Development Pact Ghana signed a historic agreement with Japan to leverage space science—likely involving satellite technologies—for national development, including agriculture, disaster response, and digital infrastructure. (Details from TICAD outcome declarations and sectoral pledges.) Youth Training in AI, Agri-Tech, Green Transition & Biotechnology The agreement includes comprehensive training for 300,000 Ghanaian youths in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, modern agriculture, green technologies, tech startups, and biotechnology—securing Ghana’s future workforce. Rice Production and Food Security Drive Japan committed to special cooperation anchored in cutting-edge scientific research to boost domestic rice yields—essential for achieving Ghana’s food security goals. US$100 Million in New Agricultural Funding Ghana secured fresh funding—estimated at US$100 million—targeted toward agricultural projects, including mechanization, value addition, and rural development. $1.5 Billion Industrialization Push from Japan in the Offing Japan signaled strong interest in investing up to US$1.5 billion in Africa, including potential industrial investments in Ghana. This aligns with Ghana’s ambition to industrialize under its “Big Push” framework.
Significance for Ghana
At a time when global economic competition intensifies, Ghana’s renewed partnership with Japan under TICAD 9 represents a strategic hand extending across sectors—from infrastructure and trade to technology, youth empowerment, and food security. President Mahama’s pitch at TICAD highlighted Ghana as stable, democratic, investor-friendly, and uniquely positioned as a regional gateway.
Honouring Noguchi’s Legacy: 98 Years Later
It has now been 98 years since the selfless sacrifice of Dr. Hideyo Noguchi, whose pioneering research on yellow fever in Ghana ended in his untimely death. His legacy laid the foundation for the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR)—a world-class centre funded through Japanese cooperation—serving Ghana and West Africa.
President Mahama’s renewal of this partnership honors Noguchi’s spirit, symbolizing how deep bi-national friendship engenders long-term development.
Final Word
President Mahama’s appearance at TICAD 9 was more than diplomatic—it was transformational. The slate of agreements signed, combined with Japan’s long-term faith in Ghana’s potential, arms the country with resources and partnerships for a generational leap forward.
From bridges to biotechnology, from car assembly to satellite science, Ghana’s resurgence is tangible—and rooted in partnerships that value mutual growth and respect.
