TTH Doctors Resume Emergency Services Following Dagbon Overlord’s Intervention
Strike partially lifted as traditional leaders mediate ongoing tensions with Health Ministry
Doctors at the Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH) have resumed emergency services after a two-day strike, thanks to the intervention of the Overlord of Dagbon, Yaa Naa Abukari II.
A delegation led by Zangbalun Naa Dr. Yakubu II, Chief of the Zangbalun Traditional Area, met with hospital management and representatives of the Doctors Association of Tamale Teaching Hospital (DATTH) on Friday, April 25. The meeting, which aimed to mediate the dispute, successfully led to the partial restoration of critical healthcare services at the Northern Region’s main referral center.
According to Joy FM’s Northern Regional Correspondent, Martina Bugri, emergency care has resumed, but doctors are still holding back from fully returning to duty. They are demanding a formal apology from Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh before reinstating outpatient and general services.
“As a neutral facilitator, I will convey your concerns to the Minister and engage him on taking the necessary steps to address your grievances,” Zangbalun Naa Dr. Yakubu II assured during the meeting. “We urge you to consider the lives hanging in the balance and ensure emergency services continue in the meantime.”
Dr. Salifu Alhassan Tiah, Director of Pharmacy at TTH, echoed the appeal, urging his colleagues to honor the involvement of the traditional authority.
“If there is any difficulty, the ultimate place we turn to is His Royal Highness,” Dr. Tiah said. “We must accord this delegation the highest respect and take their message to heart.”
The strike had disrupted critical medical care at the hospital, sparking concern across the northern health sector. While emergency services are now operational, full resolution awaits further dialogue with the Health Ministry.
