Ghana’s parliament has successfully passed the Narcotics Control Commission Bill, 2023, granting the Ministry of Interior the authority to issue licenses for cannabis cultivation. This significant development opens up opportunities for the utilization of cannabis in various industrial and medicinal applications, marking a crucial milestone for the country.
The passage of the legislation faced challenges when the Supreme Court declared section 43 of the previous law unconstitutional, impeding its smooth progress. Section 43 of Act 1019 authorized the Minister, upon recommendation by the Commission, to grant licenses for cannabis cultivation, colloquially known as “wee” in Ghana. However, this provision has been eliminated due to its unconstitutional nature.
On July 12th, 2023, Parliament deliberated on the Narcotics Control Commission (Amendment) Bill, 2023. The bill consists of a single clause that, once passed, will empower the Minister to grant licenses for cannabis cultivation within the country.
The enactment of this law marks a significant stride for Ghana in harnessing the potential benefits of cannabis cultivation. By permitting controlled cultivation of cannabis with limited THC content, the government aims to explore its industrial potential in areas such as fiber and seed production. Furthermore, the regulated utilization of cannabis’s medicinal properties can now be further investigated and employed.
This legislative achievement sets the stage for the development of a well-regulated cannabis industry in Ghana, ensuring cultivation and usage adhere to strict guidelines and quality standards. By establishing a framework that prioritizes responsible practices, Ghana seeks to maximize the potential of cannabis while safeguarding public health and safety.