Ghana’s tallest man, Abdul‑Samed Sulemana (Awuche), dies at 33

Abdul-Samed Sulemana, popularly known as Awuche, has died at the Tamale Teaching Hospital, bringing to a painful end the life of a man widely regarded as Ghana’s tallest. Reports say the 33-year-old passed away in the early hours of Monday, July 27, 2026, weeks after businessman Ibrahim Mahama pledged to cover his medical bills.

Awuche’s death came after a long struggle with gigantism, a condition that had affected his health for years and made specialist treatment difficult to afford. He had been referred from the Baptist Medical Centre in Nalerigu to Tamale for advanced care when his condition worsened.

His story drew national attention because of both his remarkable height and the hardship that came with his illness. At about 7 feet 8 inches, he became a familiar figure in public conversation, but behind the attention was a young man battling a serious medical condition with limited resources. The recent pledge of support had briefly offered hope, making news of his death even more tragic.

Tributes have begun pouring in online, with many Ghanaians describing his passing as heartbreaking and calling for more support for people living with rare medical conditions. His death has also renewed attention on the challenges faced by patients outside major urban centres, where access to specialized treatment can be limited.

Awuche’s passing is a reminder that extraordinary physical traits can come with extraordinary burdens. For many, he will be remembered not just for his height, but for the difficult journey he endured while trying to survive it.