The Health Facilities Regulatory Agency (HeFRA) has ordered the immediate closure of the Tamale Technical University Hospital after uncovering severe breaches in health and safety standards, as well as the facility’s failure to renew its operational license.

According to a public notice issued on November 10, 2025, and signed by Dr. Winfred Korletey Baah, Acting Registrar of HeFRA, intelligence gathered by the agency — supported by video footage and photographs — revealed that healthcare delivery at the facility was being conducted under conditions that posed serious risks to both patients and staff.

The intelligence, HeFRA said, was further verified by a visit from its Compliance and Enforcement Directorate on Monday, November 3, 2025, which confirmed widespread lapses in infection prevention and control measures.

The investigation also revealed that the Tamale Technical University Hospital had been operating with an expired HeFRA license, a violation of the Health Institutions and Facilities Act, 2011 (Act 829).

The Act mandates all health institutions in Ghana, whether public or private, to obtain a valid license from HeFRA before offering medical services.

Following these findings, HeFRA has directed the immediate closure of the facility, effective Friday, November 7, 2025.

The agency emphasized that the hospital will remain closed until all safety deficiencies and infection prevention challenges are fully addressed to meet national healthcare standards.

In addition to the closure, HeFRA has imposed an administrative fine of GHC 35,000 on the management of the hospital for violating regulatory provisions.

The agency further instructed the facility to regularize its licensing status and to adopt comprehensive measures that ensure the highest standards of patient safety and hygiene before resuming operations.

This latest enforcement action highlights HeFRA’s intensified regulatory oversight in recent years.

The agency, established under Act 829, is responsible for licensing, regulating, and monitoring the operations of all health facilities across Ghana to ensure they provide safe, quality, and standardized healthcare services.

HeFRA reiterated its commitment to protecting public health and ensuring that all medical institutions—whether government-owned or private—comply strictly with national healthcare regulations.

The statement concluded with a warning that similar sanctions will be applied to any facility that flouts safety protocols or operates without a valid license.

“HeFRA remains committed to ensuring the safety of the public through the provision of quality healthcare services,” the statement signed by Dr. Winfred Korletey Baai read.

The closure of the Tamale Technical University Hospital has sparked concern in the Northern Region, as it serves as a key health facility for students, staff, and surrounding communities.

Stakeholders are urging the hospital’s management to act swiftly to rectify the identified infractions to ensure the timely reopening of the facility.