By Ghazali Ibrahim
Abdul-Samed Sulemana, popularly known as Awuche and widely recognised as Ghana’s tallest man, has died at the age of 33 after battling health complications linked to gigantism.
Awuche died in the early hours of Monday at the Tamale Teaching Hospital, where he had been receiving treatment after his condition worsened in recent weeks, according to family members and hospital sources.
The towering Ghanaian rose to international prominence in 2022 after a BBC feature highlighted his extraordinary height and the daily challenges he faced living with gigantism.
Although initial reports from a local hospital suggested he stood at 9 feet 6 inches, later measurements by the BBC put his height at about 7 feet 4 inches (2.24 metres), as the rural clinic lacked the equipment needed to accurately measure someone of his stature.
Awuche lived with acromegaly, a rare hormonal disorder caused by excessive growth hormone production, which led to his unusual height and several health complications.
Despite his condition, he remained optimistic and often spoke about his hopes of getting married, raising a family and living a normal life.
In the weeks leading up to his death, Ghanaian businessman Ibrahim Mahama had offered to cover his medical expenses after learning about his deteriorating health.
The financial support had raised hopes that Awuche’s condition would improve, but he succumbed to the illness before further treatment could be completed.
News of his death has triggered an outpouring of tributes across Ghana, with many describing him as a gentle and humble man who inspired others despite the physical and social challenges associated with his condition.
Awuche’s story brought international attention to the challenges faced by people living with gigantism and other rare medical conditions in Africa, highlighting the need for improved access to specialised healthcare and early diagnosis.
