Stories and facts

The Tamale Central Market, situated in the heart of Tamale, Ghana, stands as the largest market in northern Ghana. This bustling marketplace serves as a crucial hub for commerce and cultural exchange, drawing traders and visitors from all over the country.

The market offers a diverse array of goods, including traditional crafts, clothing, and local cuisine, making it a vibrant center of activity.

However, the market has experienced significant challenges in its history. In 1979, a fire outbreak caused substantial damage, and in 1982, the market was completely burnt down.

Restoration efforts were undertaken by the then head of state, Flight Lieutenant Jerry Rawlings, and later in 2015, additional renovations were carried out by President John Mahama.

The market is divided into two major sections: the Aboabo Market and the old market side, known locally as Dakurili in the Dagbani dialect. The Aboabo Market is particularly notable for its bustling wholesale and retail activities, especially concerning local food products.

Despite its significance, the Tamale Central Market has faced issues such as congestion and fire outbreaks. On Wednesday, September 9, 2022, a fire broke out in the market, burning several stores. Firefighters from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) swiftly intervened to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to numerous other stores, underscoring the market's ongoing challenges and resilience.