Medical Internship Ghana: A Brief Description
St. Anne Catholic Hospital is located in Canteen, Damongo. The community includes almost every tribe currently living in Ghana.
Especially Canteen blends cultures, creating a unique, vibrant society.
Damongo translates to “the place of elders” and serves as a traditional, political, and historical town. It is the capital of the Gonja Kingdom, home to the Yagbonwura (King).
In 2019, Damongo became the capital of the Savannah Region. Medical Internship Ghana at St Anne Catholic Hospital is located in the heart of Damongo. All in all, the region is known as a settler community made up of almost every tribe in Ghana, amalgamated into a homogenous society. Thus, through the integration of the various cultures, Canteen presents a unique culture that is unparalleled by any society in the entire region, establishing a fascinating community to live and work in Damongo.
The Population
The residents of Damongo are predominantly Gonja by tribe. Based on the 2021 population census, approximately 72.000 people live in the region, with about 70% being Muslim. Economically, the majority of people make their living with subsistence farming, though in recent years, the service sector seems to be gaining momentum. Gari processing and beekeeping seem to be very critical economic activities carried out in the dry season.
Medical Internship Ghana: What Languages do I need?
English is the official language for formal communication in Ghana.
Gonja is the dominant local language in Damongo.
Despite those, other widely spoken languages include Dagbani, Dagaari, Frafra, and Twi, especially in Canteen.
What about Tourist Sites?
There are several tourist attractions in and around Damongo township. In Damongo, the Jakpa palace is one of the most fascinating tourist sites. It is the official residence of Yagbonwura and holds significant historical and cultural value to the Gonja Kingdom.
Thus, medical Internships Ghana connect cultural experiences with other tourist sites. Those are of cultural and historical significance, including the oldest mosque in Ghana and the mystic rock, both located in Larabanga, another community in the municipality. Thousands of worldwide tourists travel to visit the largest wildlife reserve in Ghana, the Mole National Park, and the Mognori eco village, both located in the region.
Other Touristic Sites in the Region:
Besides, other tourist attractions in the Savannah Region are the former Salaga market, the royal mausoleum for Gonja Kings in Mankuma, and the famous shrine for Sonyo, the first capital of the Gonja Kingdom – Nyange, the black and white volta, among several others. Aside from sites, the Savannah region possesses a unique and fascinating history and cultures, with people who are lovely and welcoming..
Security
Damongo in general is considered a peaceful and safe town with a relatively low crime rate compared to larger cities in Ghana. As the regional capital of the Savannah Region, it benefits from a stable administrative presence and community-oriented local population. Violent crime is uncommon, though basic precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and safeguarding personal belongings are advisable. For up-to-date official travel and safety information, see the U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory for Ghana (Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution).
Travel
Damongo does not have its own airport, so visitors usually fly into Tamale International Airport, about 140 km away (2–3 hours by road). Domestic flights from Accra’s Kotoka International Airport to Tamale are the most convenient option. From Tamale, travelers can reach Damongo by taxi, private car, or arranged shuttle. The roads are generally paved and safe, offering a comfortable journey through northern Ghana.
Accra serves as Ghana’s main international airport with flights from Europe, the U.S., and other African countries. It is also possible to drive or take a bus from Accra to Damongo, which takes roughly 12–14 hours, passing through many scenic parts of Ghana.
We will arrange for pickup at the airport and transit to our hospital site for accepted medical students.
Apply now for your unique experience in medical education!