Beloved northern Ghana figure, famed for his extraordinary height, passes away in Tamale as tributes pour in

Ghana’s tallest man, Sulemana Abdul Samed—widely known as Awuche—has died at the age of 33, bringing an end to a life that drew national attention and inspired many despite serious health challenges.

Awuche passed away on Monday at the Tamale Teaching Hospital, where he had been receiving treatment for infected sores on his legs. His death was confirmed by the BBC, sparking an outpouring of grief, especially in northern Ghana where he was a well-known and admired figure.

Standing at 7 feet 4 inches (223cm) when last measured by the BBC in 2022, Awuche was recognised as the tallest man in Ghana. His remarkable height, caused by a condition linked to Marfan syndrome, made him a local celebrity and a symbol of pride for his hometown of Gambaga.

Family members described him as kind-hearted and generous. A relative, Sulemana Abdul Kudus, said Awuche’s death came as a shock to many.

“Everyone knew how generous and kind he was. Since his passing, people have continued to visit the house, trying to understand what really happened,” he said.

Although the sores on his legs were not directly caused by Marfan syndrome, they were believed to be complications related to the condition. Reports indicated that he had been responding to treatment before his sudden death.

Awuche’s health struggles were widely known. Diagnosed in his early 20s, his rapid and unusual growth forced him to abandon his dream of becoming a driver. He eventually returned to Gambaga, where he lived for years coping with the physical limitations of his condition.

He once recalled how his life changed dramatically, starting with an unusual swelling of his tongue that affected his breathing, followed by rapid growth across his body within days. Over time, his condition made even short walks difficult.

Despite these challenges, Awuche remained optimistic and embraced the recognition that came with his height. His presence brought visibility to his community, with many across Ghana identifying Gambaga as the home of the country’s tallest man.

“He gave the town an identity,” Kudus added. “Anywhere he went, once he mentioned Gambaga, people immediately knew where he was from.”

In recent years, support came from businessman Ibrahim Mahama, who stepped in to assist with his medical care. The intervention helped ease the burden of hospital bills and ensured he received treatment at the Tamale Teaching Hospital.

Following his death, the family has decided he will be buried in Tamale rather than his hometown, amid concerns that Gambaga may not be able to manage the large number of mourners expected to attend his funeral.

Awuche is remembered not just for his extraordinary height, but for his resilience, humility, and the warmth he showed to those around him.