Sulemana Abdul-Samed, popularly known as Awuche and widely regarded as Ghana’s tallest man, has died at the age of 33.
He passed away in the early hours of Monday, July 27, 2026, at the Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH), where he was receiving treatment for complications related to gigantism. Awuche measured 7 feet 4 inches (2.24 metres) tall.
A family source confirmed his 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 first treated at the Baptist Medical Centre (BMC) in Nalerigu before being referred to the Tamale Teaching Hospital for specialised care.
His condition drew national attention after public appeals were made for financial support. Businessman and philanthropist Ibrahim Mahama later took full responsibility for his medical expenses at the Tamale Teaching Hospital and indicated readiness to facilitate specialist treatment abroad if required.
On July 11, 2026, an aide to Mr Mahama, Rafik Mahama, announced that following a comprehensive reassessment by doctors, Awuche’s left leg would not be amputated as earlier recommended in the referral from Nalerigu. He reaffirmed Mr Mahama’s commitment to covering all necessary medical costs.
According to his family, Awuche was not born with the condition. He began growing abnormally at a young age, a development later attributed to gigantism. His extraordinary height made him a familiar and widely recognised figure across Ghana, attracting public attention wherever he went.
His death has been met with widespread grief from family, friends, and members of the public, particularly on social media.