Ghana’s parliament legalises farming of cannabis for industrial use
Ghana’s parliament has legalised the farming of cannabis for industrial and commercial purposes. This follows the endorsement of the Narcotics Control Commission Regulations 2023 which legalises cannabis with a tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content of 0.3.
The Cannabis of THC 0.3 has little to no psychoactive effects and can be used for the making of ropes, paper and other building materials.
According to the vice Chair of the Constitutional and Legal Affairs Committee in parliament, the plant used for medicinal and industrial purposes will boost Ghana’s economic prospects.
"We're not talking about just a leaf in someone's backyard, we're talking about a whole industry that is being created. And if we have our fertile lands here, and we can grow and make sure that the right framework is in place, I don't see why we can’t take advantage of it," she was quoted by local news outlet Myjoyonline.
Interior Minister Ambrose Dery who was also in the chamber sought to clarify the legalisation of the herb. He emphasized that the move does not mean the legalization of recreational weed while adding that the ministry is now preparing to import cannabis with a THC of 0.3 into the country.
Minority Chief Whip Governs Kwame Agbodza on his part cautioned against the development, suggesting that its use could be abused.
“None of you is talking about the potential of abuse and how that can degenerate into mental health problems we already have in this country. Why are we pretending that this is going to solve our problem? Minister? Do you even know how many people in this country are smoking weed?" he was quoted by Myjoyonline.
The Parliament of Ghana passed the Narcotics Control Commission Bill 2023 into law early this year after the Supreme Court’s previous intervention and declaration of section 43 of the law unconstitutional, hindering the smooth passage of the legislation.
The passage of the law is expected to pave the way for the development of a well-regulated cannabis industry in Ghana, ensuring that its cultivation and usage adhere to strict guidelines and quality standards.
