Tamale, Ghana

The 3rd largest city in Ghana, Tamale became Louisville’s sister city in 1979 when a group of African-Americans interested in creating ties with Ghana sparked the bond that was made official a few years after it was proposed. Tamale, a fast-growing city in the northern region of Ghana, has recently committed to strengthening the relationship with the appointment of a new Zosimli-Naa (friendship promoter) who is a Louisville resident.


  • 730,000 (2023) urban population

    Capital of the Northern Region of Ghana

  • Mostly inhabited by the Mole-Dagomba linguistic group

    Architectural blend of traditional slums and modern buildings

  • A colonial creation in the early 20th century to be the capital of the British Northern Territories

    Northern Ghana was starved of population because most work (mines and plantations) were in the south. The first post-independence government implemented a plan to even population by investing in development of its cities which led to Tamale’s growth

  • Toose: non-alcoholic maize brew

    Lamugee: Ginger spiced rice drink

    Waakye: a cooked dish of rice and beans

  • In 2022, a new Zosimli-Naa (a person who promotes friendship) was appointed (enskinned) to rekindle ties between Louisville and Tamale, Madam Ife Bell Tipag’ya, a Louisville resident, now holds this title.

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