The death of Sulemana Abdul Samed, Ghana's tallest man, has prompted an outpouring of grief particularly in the north where his extraordinary stature made him a local celebrity.
The 33‑year‑old died in a hospital in Tamale after sores on his legs became infected. He had been admitted a short distance from his home village of Gambaga, about 160km south, where he was originally from.
A relative, Sulemana Abdul Kudus, told BBC Africa that everyone knew his generous nature, and that people continue to visit the house to learn what happened.
Diagnosed with gigantism in his twenties, he measured 7ft 4in (223cm) in a BBC survey in 2023. His height grew rapidly at 22, prompting him to leave an attempted career in driving and return to Gambaga.
Awuche also suffered from Marfan syndrome, a genetic disorder affecting connective tissue. This condition caused his limbs and spine to become exceptionally long and curved, limiting his activity and leading to the infection that ultimately caused his death.
His passing has shocked the local community, and the family has chosen to bury him in Tamale to avoid overwhelming crowds in Gambaga. A soldier from the brother of former president John Mahama offered to pay his medical bills, underscoring the support he received despite his financial hardships.
Additional reporting by Favour Nunoo
