Ghana’s tallest man, Sulemana Abdul Samed, popularly known as Awuche, has died at the age of 33.
His passing has triggered an outpouring of grief, especially in northern Ghana, where his remarkable height had made him a beloved local celebrity.
According to the BBC, Awuche died on Monday at the Tamale Teaching Hospital in northern Ghana after being admitted for treatment of infected sores on his legs. The hospital is located about 160km (100 miles) from his home village of Gambaga.
A relative, Sulemana Abdul Kudus, described the late giant as a generous and well-loved figure. “Everyone knew how generous and kind he was. From when he died until now a lot of people are still coming to the house to find out what exactly happened,” he told the BBC.
Health Condition and Background
Diagnosed with gigantism in his 20s, Awuche stood at 7ft 4in (223cm) when measured by the BBC in late 2022, though he is believed to have grown even taller afterward.
He lived with complications from Marfan syndrome, a genetic disorder affecting connective tissues that caused his unusually long limbs. The condition forced him to abandon his dream of becoming a driver and return to Gambaga about nine years ago.
Awuche had previously shared how his rapid growth began at age 22 while working at a butcher’s shop in Accra. “I realised my tongue had expanded in my mouth to the extent that I could not breathe [properly],” he recounted. Within days, his body began growing rapidly.
Despite the physical challenges, including difficulty walking short distances, he maintained a positive outlook and embraced the attention his height brought him.
Support and Final Days
Businessman Ibrahim Mahama, brother of Ghanaian President John Mahama, had recently stepped in to cover Awuche’s medical bills at the Tamale Teaching Hospital after the family struggled with costs.
Doctors reportedly said he was responding well to treatment, but he died on Monday morning. The sores on his legs were described as a complication of his condition rather than a direct result of Marfan syndrome.
His family has decided to bury him in Tamale instead of Gambaga, fearing the village would be overwhelmed by mourners.
Residents of Gambaga expressed shock at his sudden death, noting that his fame had put their community on the map.
Awuche’s story touched many across Ghana and beyond, highlighting both the challenges of living with rare medical conditions and the kindness that can emerge in response.
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