Ghana’s tallest man, Sulemana Abdul Samed, popularly known as Awuche, has passed away at the age of 33, leaving many in mourning, particularly in northern Ghana where he was widely known and admired.

According to a report by the BBC on Tuesday evening, Awuche died on Monday at the Tamale Teaching Hospital after being admitted for treatment of infected sores on his legs. He had been receiving medical care in Tamale, a northern city located about 160 kilometers from his hometown of Gambaga.

A relative, Sulemana Abdul Kudus, described the late Awuche as a kind and generous individual who was deeply loved by his community. He noted that many people have continued to visit the family home to express their condolences and seek clarity about his passing.

Diagnosed with gigantism in his 20s, Awuche stood at 7 feet 4 inches (223 cm) when he was measured by the BBC in late 2022, although it is believed he may have grown taller before his death. 

He was also living with Marfan syndrome, a genetic disorder affecting connective tissues, which contributed to his extraordinary height and long limbs.

Reports indicate that Awuche faced significant financial challenges in managing his medical condition until businessman Ibrahim Mahama, brother of Ghanaian President John Mahama, stepped in to support his treatment at the Tamale Teaching Hospital. Mahama had also met him and recently provided updates on plans for his medical care.

Kudus clarified that the sores on Awuche’s legs were not directly caused by Marfan syndrome but were likely a complication associated with his condition. Despite reportedly responding well to treatment, he passed away on Monday morning.

His death has left residents of Gambaga in shock, as many viewed him as a symbol of pride for the community. According to Kudus, Awuche’s fame brought recognition to the village, as he often proudly identified Gambaga as his hometown wherever he went.

Awuche was not always unusually tall. His rapid growth reportedly began at the age of 22 while working at a butcher’s shop in Accra. He once recounted how his condition started with an unusual enlargement of his tongue, which soon progressed to a dramatic increase in his overall body size, leading to his diagnosis.

The condition forced him to abandon his dream of becoming a driver and return to Gambaga about nine years ago.

 

Reflecting on his life, he had expressed how the illness affected his mobility, stating that he could no longer walk short distances despite once being active and athletic.

Despite these challenges, Awuche maintained a positive outlook and embraced the recognition that came with his unique stature.

His family has announced that he will be buried in Tamale rather than Gambaga due to concerns that the village may not be able to accommodate the large number of mourners expected at his funeral.