Ghana’s tallest man, Sulemana Abdul Samed, passes away at 33

ACCRA, Ghana — Sulemana Abdul Samed, widely regarded as Ghana’s tallest man, has died after complications related to gigantism. He was 33.

Samed was known across the country by his nickname Awuche, meaning “Let’s Go” in Hausa. He died last Monday after infected leg sores worsened, according to BBC.

Ghana’s Tallest Man Sulemana Abdul Samed Stood More Than 7 Feet Tall

Samed measured 7 feet 4 inches during assessments in 2022 by the BBC, though relatives said he likely grew taller before his death. His extraordinary height made him a national figure and a familiar presence in his home village of Gambaga. Residents often said he put the community “on the map.”

Unlike many people with unusual height, Samed did not grow rapidly as a child. His height changed suddenly at 22, while he worked at a butcher shop in Accra. He recalled the moment his body began transforming.

“I realized my tongue had expanded in my mouth to the extent that I could not breathe properly,” he told the BBC in 2022. Within days, he noticed dramatic physical changes.

Health Complications From Marfan Syndrome

Doctors linked his declining health to complications from Marfan syndrome, a connective‑tissue disorder that caused his extreme height, mobility challenges and recurring medical issues. Relatives said the infected sores on his legs were not directly caused by the syndrome but were likely a complication of it.

Samed’s condition drew national attention as he struggled to pay for treatment. According to reports businessman Ibrahim Mahama, brother of Ghana’s president, stepped in to cover his medical bills and pledged to support additional care. Doctors recently reassessed his treatment plan and said his left leg would not need amputation, contrary to earlier recommendations.

Tributes Across Ghana

Samed was a beloved community member whose death has prompted an outpouring of grief, especially in northern Ghana. Relatives described him as generous, kind and consistently optimistic despite his health challenges.

“Everyone knew how generous and kind he was,” his relative, Sulemana Abdul Kudus, told the BBC.

“From when he died until now a lot of people are still coming to the house to find out what exactly happened.”

Community members continued visiting his family home after his death and offering condolences. Many said his warm personality and resilience left a lasting impact far beyond his remarkable height.

Family members said Samed will be buried in Tamale in accordance with Islamic tradition.

Sulemana Abdul Samed leaves behind relatives, friends and a community that embraced him as both a symbol of pride and a reminder of perseverance.