In fulfilment of its planning mandate, the Northern Development Authority (NDA) launched a comprehensive initiative to prepare a long-term, plan for the transformation of Northern Ghana. Detailed Master Plans for the cities of Tamale and Buipe have therefore been developed in line with the vision of government under the “Growing Together” initiative to transform the economy and create economic growth in the region that would improve the quality of life of the people.

Tamale Greater Metropolitan Area (TGMA) consists of Tamale Metropolis and Sagnarigu Municipal Administrative Districts and is the regional capital of the Northern Region. As the largest urban centre in the region, the city has witnessed strong urbanization and as such has its urbanization challenges such as urban sprawl, traffic and infrastructure management. Located centrally along the important linkage that links Ghana's key cities along the North-South economic development corridor and cross-border to Burkina Faso, TGMA has tremendous opportunities.

The Buipe city structure aims to provide a strategic and spatial plan to guide the future growth and urban development of the city within the region. Its position along the waterfront create a distinct city identity and attractive urban space. It also creates an opportunity for an inland port for Northern Ghana and the Sahel countries.