Green Light: Ghana to begin issuing medicinal cannabis licences as Parliament clears final hurdle
The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has announced that it will soon begin accepting applications for licences to cultivate cannabis for medicinal and industrial purposes, following parliamentary approval of the final regulatory framework.
In a press statement dated February 11, 2026, the Commission confirmed that the necessary regulatory and cost structures had been ratified, paving the way for the operationalisation of a licensing regime for the “controlled cultivation, processing, and use of cannabis with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content not exceeding 0.3 per cent.”
The development marks a major policy shift from years of legislative debate to full administrative implementation. Although Ghana amended the Narcotics Control Commission Act in 2020 to permit cannabis cultivation for industrial and medicinal purposes, the absence of detailed regulations and an approved fee structure had stalled progress in the sector. The latest announcement signals that the outstanding requirements have now been addressed.
Despite the breakthrough, the Commission was unequivocal that the decision does not amount to broad legalisation. “NACOC reiterates that recreational use of cannabis remains illegal in Ghana,” the statement said, drawing a clear distinction between regulated industrial use and unlawful consumption.
According to the Commission, licences will be granted strictly to “qualified entities that meet stringent requirements, including security protocols, product traceability systems, quality assurance standards, and full compliance with applicable laws and regulations.” This suggests that prospective operators will face rigorous scrutiny before approval.
The statement also carried a strong public advisory, cautioning potential applicants against dealing with intermediaries. The Commission stated it “strongly cautions prospective applicants to deal directly and exclusively with NACOC through the Cannabis Regulations Department” and to “avoid engaging with any individuals, groups, or associations claiming to facilitate licensing.”
NACOC further indicated that it would collaborate closely with the Ministry of the Interior, the Ghana Standards Authority and the Food and Drugs Authority to ensure “effective implementation, monitoring, and enforcement” of the new regime.
Framing the initiative within a broader national agenda, the Commission described the move as balancing economic opportunity with public safety. “We remain committed to safeguarding public health and safety while supporting lawful innovation and industrial development in Ghana,” it said.
The announcement is expected to generate significant interest from investors and agribusiness operators, as Ghana positions itself to enter the regulated global market for low-THC cannabis products while maintaining strict controls against recreational use.
