Sulemana Abdul-Samed, popularly known as Awuche and widely regarded as Ghana’s tallest man, has died at the age of 33 after a prolonged battle with health complications linked to gigantism. He passed away in the early hours of Monday, July 27, 2026, at the Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH), where he had been receiving specialist medical care.
Standing at approximately 7 feet 4 inches (2.24 metres), Awuche became one of Ghana’s most recognisable figures because of his extraordinary height. His condition, caused by gigantism (also reported as acromegaly in earlier medical coverage), attracted national attention and sparked widespread calls for financial assistance to support his treatment.
A native of Gambaga in Ghana’s North East Region, Awuche was initially treated at the Baptist Medical Centre in Nalerigu before being referred to Tamale Teaching Hospital as his condition worsened. In recent weeks, prominent Ghanaian businessman and philanthropist Ibrahim Mahama pledged to cover his medical expenses and even offered to facilitate specialist treatment abroad if necessary.
Despite the financial support, his health continued to deteriorate due to complications associated with gigantism, including a severe leg condition. His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes across Ghana, with many remembering him not only for his remarkable height but also for his resilience in the face of serious health challenges.
According to family sources, burial arrangements were made in Tamale in accordance with Islamic tradition.