Ghana's tallest man dies at 33 from complications of Marfan syndrome

Sulemana Abdul Samed, recognized as Ghana's tallest man, has passed away at the age of 33. His death on Monday followed complications arising from infected wounds on his legs. The BBC reported on the passing of Samed, who had been diagnosed with gigantism at age 20.

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He died on Monday, when his leg wounds became infected.

At the time of his measurement by the BBC in 2022, Samed stood at 223 centimeters (approximately 7 feet 4 inches), and he may have grown further before his death. He lived with Marfan syndrome, a hereditary disorder that led to his exceptionally long limbs and other health challenges. While the leg wounds were not a direct symptom of Marfan syndrome, they were considered a complication likely stemming from his condition.

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He was 223 centimeters tall when the BBC measured him in 2022.

Samed's rapid growth spurt began around age 22. He first noticed difficulties breathing due to his tongue enlarging. Soon after, other body parts began to grow, leading to his Marfan syndrome diagnosis. His extraordinary height forced him to abandon his dream of becoming a car driver and end his participation in football due to mobility issues.

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He suffered from hereditary Marfan syndrome, which caused his very long limbs.

Facing challenges in covering his medical costs, Samed received support from Ibrahim Mahama, a prominent businessman and brother of Ghana's President John Mahama. Samed was a well-known personality in Ghana, making his hometown of Gambaga a notable place. However, his family chose to bury him in the city of Tamale rather than his village to avoid overwhelming crowds of mourners.

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He had difficulty paying his medical bills, which Ghana's President John Mahama's brother, successful businessman Ibrahim Mahama, offered to pay.