Stories and facts
As both the Metropolitan and Regional capital of the Northern Region, Tamale holds a significant position in the region's social, economic, and cultural landscape. Interestingly, the North East and Savannah regions were created through referenda in December 2018, branching off from the larger Northern region.
Situated in the central part of the Northern Region, the Tamale Metropolis shares its boundaries with the Sagnarigu Municipality to the North-West, Mion District to the East, East Gonja to the South, and Central Gonja to the South-West. This strategic location places Tamale as a key market hub for local goods from the agricultural and commercial sectors in neighboring districts and even from the southern part of Ghana. Moreover, the Metropolis stands to benefit from trade opportunities with nearby West African countries, including Burkina Faso, Niger, Mali, and Togo. Covering a total estimated land size of 646.9 sqkm (according to the 2010 PHC Report), the Metropolis spans between latitude 9º16 and 9º 34 North and longitudes 0º 36 and 0º 57 West.
The Tamale Metropolis comprises a total of 116 communities, categorized into 41 urban, 15 peri-urban, and 60 rural areas. The rural regions of Tamale are essential for agricultural activities and serve as the food basket for the Metropolis. However, these communities lack adequate basic social and economic infrastructure, such as good roads, schools, hospitals, markets, and recreational centers.
Topography and Drainage
The Metropolis features a generally flat topography with gentle undulating low relief, ranging from 400 to 800 ft. above sea level. Water bodies are limited, with only a few seasonal streams that dry up during the dry season. To address water scarcity, some artificial dams and dug-outs have been constructed either by communities or Non-Governmental Organizations in the Metropolis. While the drainage situation may be poor, there is potential for irrigation schemes, especially utilizing the Pagazaa stream for agricultural purposes.
Climate and Rainfall Pattern
Tamale experiences two main seasons throughout the year: the dry season from late October to early May and the rainy season from late May to early October. The dry season is characterized by farming activities such as harvesting of rice, cassava, and yam, as well as hunting and bush burning for game. The temperature during this period is suitable for solar and wind energy. Notably, the months of November to February experience dry harmattan winds from the Sahara. The rainy season brings an annual average rainfall of 1200mm and is associated with cultivation, sowing, and harvesting activities. However, some areas may become inaccessible during heavy rains due to poor road conditions, and food insecurity may occur between June and early August.
Population Size and Demographics
According to the 2021 Population and Housing Census, the population of the Tamale Metropolis stands at 374,744, with 49.4 percent males and 50.6 percent females, indicating a slightly higher proportion of females. The Metropolis is predominantly urban, with 80.8 percent of the population residing in urban areas and 19.2 percent in rural areas. This demographic characteristic makes Tamale a potential growth pole for other regions in northern Ghana, attracting both population and economic development.
Age-Dependency and Religious Affiliation
The age-dependency ratio, reflecting the ratio of dependent-age persons (under 15 and over 65) to the working-age population (15 to 64 years), is 70.2 for males and 68.5 for females in the Metropolis. This ratio suggests a greater number of male dependents compared to females. Additionally, the dependency ratio is higher in rural areas (86.5) than in urban areas (65.7).
Religiously, the Tamale Metropolis is predominantly Muslim, with 90.5 percent of the population adhering to Islam. Christians constitute a significant minority, with Catholics being the largest Christian group at 3.0 percent, followed by Pentecostal/Charismatic and Protestants, both at 2.4 percent. Traditionalists make up 0.3 percent of the population. Religious leaders play a crucial role in spreading Islamic teachings and promoting moral values.
Ethnic Diversity
The Metropolis is home to diverse ethnic and tribal groups, with Dagombas being the traditional occupants and constituting more than 80 percent of the population. Other tribal groups such as Gonja, Mamprusi, Nanumba, Konkomba, Asantes, Ewes, Hausa, and some other minorities contribute to the region's inter-tribal cooperation, which is essential for peace and development.
The Tamale Metropolis, with its diverse demographics and strategic location, holds immense potential for economic growth and development in the Northern Region of Ghana. As the only predominantly urban Metropolis in the region, Tamale stands as a crucial center for both population and industrial labor, and its agricultural activities remain essential for providing food security and supporting the local economy. Efforts to address infrastructure challenges in rural areas and promote inter-tribal cooperation will contribute to the continued growth and prosperity of the Tamale Metropolis.
