The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has issued its first licences for the cultivation of medicinal and industrial cannabis in Ghana, marking a significant step in the country’s controlled introduction of cannabis for economic and health purposes.

The Director-General of NACOC, Major General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, announced that only two companies MJ Adom Limited and Juliotpa Limited have successfully met the stringent requirements to secure the licences.

According to him, the licensing process was rigorous, involving detailed online applications, technical reviews by a multi-agency committee, and field inspections to verify the suitability of proposed cultivation lands.

“We scrutinized all applications thoroughly to ensure strict compliance with the provisions of the Legislative Instrument (LI),” he stated. “Not everyone who applies will get the licence. You must meet all the requirements before approval is granted.”

Major General Mantey emphasized that the cultivation of cannabis with a THC level not exceeding 0.3% is only legal with a valid licence. He cautioned that any cultivation outside this framework remains illegal and punishable by law.

“Let me make it clear recreational cannabis remains illegal in Ghana. The issuance of licences for medicinal and industrial purposes does not open the door for unlawful cultivation,” he stressed.

He added that NACOC will intensify enforcement against illegal cannabis activities, noting that officers are already on the ground arresting offenders and will expand operations to clamp down on unlicensed growers.

The Director-General also warned licensed operators to strictly adhere to the conditions of their permits, including limits on acreage and scope of operations.

“You cannot go beyond what has been granted to you. If you violate the terms, the licence though valid for three years can be revoked at any time,” he cautioned.

He further disclosed that NACOC reserves the right to conduct unannounced inspections on licensed farms to ensure compliance.

The initiative, currently being piloted, is expected to create employment opportunities and unlock the economic potential of cannabis for medicinal and industrial use.

“The essence of this programme is to create jobs and harness the benefits of cannabis within the legal THC threshold,” he explained. “If managed properly, the benefits will be enormous to both companies and the Ghanaian economy.”

However, Major General Mantey reiterated that Ghana remains firm in its fight against drug abuse, describing it as a serious national concern.

“This is not about recreational use. We are dealing with a drug menace, and we will not relent in our efforts to combat it,” he said.

He encouraged stakeholders to seek clarification from NACOC where necessary and comply fully with all regulatory guidelines to ensure the success of the initiative.