[5] Major ethnic groups who resided in Tamale are Dagomba, Gonja, Mamprusi, Akan, and Dagaaba.

[3] The city grew from a small village to an important economic center in the Northern Territories after the British had established administrative headquarters in the area.

[3]: 42 Tamale boasts a thriving artistic and literary scene, evident in its numerous art studios, poets, and musicians.

[6]: 1  In 1907, the British decided to establish administrative headquarters in the area with help from the Dakpema after German officials have taken over Yendi.

[8][6]: 2 Throughout the 20th century, the population of Tamale was growing rapidly of people looking for abundant water supply and electricity.

This is in part due to the British incorporated indirect rule in the town, resulting in the imbalance of power between the chiefs.

[6]: 15 On 13 February 2022 at approximately 1:00 p.m., Ghana Police officers clashed with youth in Lamashegu, a community in Tamale, due to them driving off after allegedly riding in an unregistered vehicle.

[9][10] Historically ruled by a rural agriculture system, Tamale's economy in recent times have diversified into many different sectors.

The mayor is appointed by the president of Ghana and approved by the town council, the Tamale Metropolitan Assembly.

Due to the British wanting to keep the Northern Territories strictly agricultural and pastoral, education growth in the city was hindered.

[2]: 67  Education Ridge, a suburb in Tamale, is known for being the location of multiple schools crammed into a small area of 3 km2 (1.2 sq mi).

They run regular flights between Tamale and Accra's Kotoka International Airport, along with other regional capitals.

[17] There are public transports from Tamale to major cities such as Kumasi, Accra, Mim, Ahafo, Cape Coast, Sunyani, Takoradi, Tema, Ho, Wa, Bolgatanga, Elubo, Aflao, and Techiman.

3.2.2 Climate change is threatening the livelihoods of Tamale residents due to droughts, floods, and heatwaves becoming more common.

[21] The city is home to the Tamale Teaching Hospital, which helps to handle health related issues for the whole region.