Accra, Feb. 27 – The Government has rolled out a regulated medicinal cannabis programme, marking a significant policy shift aimed at balancing public health protection with economic opportunity.
The initiative, led by the Ministry of the Interior in collaboration with the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), is grounded in provisions of the NACOC (Amendment) Act, 2023 (Act 1100) and the Cannabis Regulations, 2023 (L.I. 2475). These laws establish guidelines for the controlled cultivation and management of cannabis for approved industrial and medical use.
At a press briefing, Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak clarified that the reforms do not legalise recreational cannabis. He emphasised that unauthorised possession, sale or use remains a criminal offence under existing legislation.
He explained that the policy permits only cannabis with a tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content not exceeding 0.3 per cent, strictly for fibre, seed and medicinal applications under a highly supervised system.
The regulatory framework outlines multiple licence categories, covering areas such as cultivation, processing, research, transport, export and distribution. Eligibility is restricted to Ghanaians or permanent residents aged 18 and above, while companies must maintain majority Ghanaian ownership and leadership.
According to the Minister, licensing authority rests solely with the Interior Ministry upon recommendation from NACOC. Approved licences will be valid for three years, tied to specific locations, and cannot be transferred without official consent.
To improve transparency, authorities have introduced a digital platform for application and monitoring of licences, reducing manual interference in the process.
Strict compliance measures have also been outlined. Cultivation sites must not be located within 100 metres of schools or residential zones, while licensed operators will be subject to routine and unannounced inspections. NACOC officers are empowered to enforce regulations, including seizure and prosecution where necessary.
Mr Mubarak indicated that the programme could attract both domestic and foreign investment, create employment—particularly in rural areas—and boost government revenue through licensing and exports.
He urged the media to help clarify public misconceptions, stressing that the initiative is focused on controlled industrial and medicinal use rather than general legalisation.
The Minister encouraged eligible individuals and businesses to apply through the official system, assuring that regulatory safeguards were firmly in place to ensure responsible implementation.
GHBUSS
Feb. 27, 2026
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