Africa (Commonwealth Union) _ Ghana’s Parliament achieved a historic milestone on December 14, 2023, by legalizing cannabis cultivation for medical and industrial purposes, aligning itself with the global trend embracing the diverse benefits of cannabis.
This groundbreaking decision grants the Interior Minister the authority to issue licenses, marking a transformative era in Ghana’s cannabis regulations. The move is in line with Ghana’s commitment to realizing the potential of cannabis, highlighted by the passage of the Narcotics Control Commission Act 2020 (Act 1019).
Ghana joins a global wave of countries tapping into the vast potential of the cannabis industry, estimated to be worth $30 billion in global GDP as of January 2022. The licenses cover a broad spectrum of cannabis-related activities, including cultivation, processing, distribution, sale, import, and export.
Crucially, these licenses adhere to stringent THC content standards, limiting levels to 0.3% on a dry weight basis. Indeed, the effective management and regulation of the cannabis value chain can play a crucial role in addressing economic challenges in Ghana. By leveraging the versatility of the cannabis plant and ensuring responsible cultivation, processing, and distribution practices, Ghana has the potential to create a sustainable and lucrative industry. This could not only contribute to economic growth but also provide job opportunities and foster innovation in medicinal and industrial applications of cannabis. It will be interesting to observe how Ghana navigates the regulatory landscape and maximizes the benefits of this transformative decision.
Ghana’s decision to legalize the cultivation and export of cannabis for medicinal and industrial purposes is poised to bring about transformative changes. With the potential to boost the economy and create employment opportunities, Ghana is positioning itself as a trailblazer in the development of the cannabis industry in Africa. The move reflects the country’s commitment to exploring new avenues for economic growth and harnessing the benefits of the cannabis plant for medicinal and industrial applications.
Link: https://www.parliament.gh/news
