Ghanaian businessman Ibrahim Mahama has pledged to fully fund the medical treatment and leg amputation of Abdul-Samed Sulemana, popularly known as Awuche, following widespread public appeals to support the 33-year-old, who is battling a life-threatening medical condition.
Awuche, believed to be Ghana’s tallest man at 7 feet 8 inches, has been living with gigantism for years. Doctors have recommended the amputation of his left leg after diagnosing a severe infection that caused part of the limb to rot, putting his life at risk.
His plight recently gained national attention after he revealed he was unable to travel to the Tamale Teaching Hospital for the life-saving procedure due to financial constraints, prompting calls for assistance from the public.
Responding to the appeal, Ibrahim Mahama, through his aide Rafik Mahama, announced on Wednesday, July 8, that he would bear the full cost of Awuche’s medical care.
“On behalf of Mr. Ibrahim Mahama, I have reached out to Awuche and his family to assure them of our full support during this challenging time,” Rafik Mahama wrote in a social media post.
He disclosed that immediate arrangements were made to transport Awuche from Gambaga to Tamale on the same day to begin treatment.
“Mr. Ibrahim Mahama has pledged to fully cover Awuche’s hospital bills, including the costs of his medical treatment and surgery. Special arrangements were also made for Awuche to travel to Tamale today, July 8, 2026, where he has safely arrived and begun the necessary medical procedures at the Tamale Teaching Hospital,” the statement added.
Awuche, a native of Gambaga in the East Mamprusi Municipality, was initially receiving treatment at the Baptist Medical Centre in Nalerigu before being referred to the Tamale Teaching Hospital after doctors determined that amputation was necessary to stop the infection from spreading to the rest of his body.
According to Awuche, he was not born with gigantism but began experiencing abnormal growth several years ago, resulting in enlarged legs and a hunched back. Although he had previously received support from family members and well-wishers, his condition worsened in recent months, forcing him to make a fresh appeal for financial assistance.
Mahama’s intervention has been widely welcomed, offering renewed hope to Awuche as he begins the critical treatment needed to save his life.
