Ghana’s tallest man, Abdul-Samed Sulemana, popularly known as Awuche, has died at the age of 33 after battling health complications linked to gigantism. He reportedly passed away in the early hours of Monday, July 27, 2026, at the Tamale Teaching Hospital, where he had been receiving treatment.

Abdul-Samed rose to international prominence after a 2022 BBC report highlighted his extraordinary height and the medical challenges he faced. Although early claims suggested he stood at 9 feet 6 inches, he was later measured at approximately 7 feet 4 inches (2.24 metres) due to limitations in available measuring equipment.

The late giant, who hailed from Gambaga in Ghana’s North East Region, had initially been treated at the Baptist Medical Centre in Nalerigu before being referred to Tamale Teaching Hospital for specialized care. His condition attracted widespread public sympathy, prompting businessman and philanthropist Ibrahim Mahama to sponsor his medical treatment and pledge support for specialist care abroad if needed.

Just weeks before his death, Mahama’s aide announced that doctors had ruled out the amputation of Abdul-Samed’s left leg after further medical assessments, offering hope for his recovery. However, his health reportedly deteriorated in the days that followed.

Funeral arrangements are expected to follow Islamic traditions, with plans underway for his burial in Tamale. Tributes have continued to pour in across Ghana and beyond, with many remembering him for his resilience and the awareness he brought to the challenges faced by people living with gigantism.

Ghana’s tallest man has suddenly passed away at the age of 33. 🥺

Source : GhanaWeb pic.twitter.com/UZPu8gC9I0

— 𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐄𝐋𝐋𝐎𝐑 🇬🇭🇬🇧 (@Ohene_Khojo) July 27, 2026