Sulemana Abdul-Samed, popularly known as Awuche and said to be Ghana's tallest man, has died at the age of 33.
He died in the early hours of Monday (July 27, 2026), at the Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH), where he had been receiving treatment after his health deteriorated due to complications associated with gigantism.
His height was 7 feet 4 inches (2.24 metres).
A family source confirmed the death to Graphic Online and said preparations were underway to bury him in Tamale in accordance with Islamic tradition.
A native of Gambaga in the East Mamprusi Municipality of the North East Region, Awuche was initially receiving treatment at the Baptist Medical Centre (BMC) in Nalerigu before he was referred to the Tamale Teaching Hospital for specialised care.
Medical support
His condition attracted national attention after appeals were made for financial assistance to support his treatment.
Businessman and philanthropist Ibrahim Mahama subsequently took over the cost of his medical care at the Tamale Teaching Hospital and expressed his readiness to facilitate specialist treatment abroad if the need arose.
On July 11, 2026, an aide to Mr Mahama, Rafik Mahama, announced that following a comprehensive reassessment by doctors at the Tamale Teaching Hospital, Awuche's left leg would not be amputated as had earlier been indicated in the referral from the Baptist Medical Centre in Nalerigu.
He said Mr Mahama remained committed to supporting Awuche's treatment and meeting all the necessary medical expenses.
Background
Awuche became widely known across the country because of his extraordinary height, which earned him recognition as Ghana's tallest man.
According to his family, Awuche was not born with the condition. They explained he started growing abnormally at a young age, a development later attributed to gigantism.
Awuche was a familiar figure who attracted public attention wherever he went because of his extraordinary height and unique stature.
His death has been met with grief by family members, friends and many members of the public, particularly on social media.
