The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has officially issued its first legal cannabis cultivation licenses to two local companies, marking a landmark shift aimed at driving economic growth, attracting investment, and fostering medical research in Ghana.
The beneficiaries, MJ Adom Limited and Juliopta Limited, received approval to cultivate cannabis strictly within the legal limit of 0.3 per cent Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) after satisfying all requirements under the nation's regulatory framework.
Rigorous Vetting and Strict Controls
Speaking at the presentation ceremony, the Director-General of NACOC, Major General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, emphasized that the vetting procedure was deliberately stringent to prevent unauthorized operators from entering the emerging sector.
Applicants underwent thorough technical evaluations, field inspections, and multi-agency reviews before final recommendations were submitted to the Minister for the Interior for approval.
Major General Mantey cautioned that recreational cannabis remains strictly illegal under Ghanaian law.
"Only licensed cultivation of cannabis with a THC content of not more than 0.3 per cent is legal. Recreational cannabis remains illegal, and anyone who cultivates without a license faces the full force of the law," Major General Mantey stated.
He explained that the initiative is operating as a controlled pilot project, allowing the country to tap into the industrial and economic benefits of hemp while maintaining safeguards against abuse. NACOC officers will conduct both scheduled and unannounced site inspections. If a crop exceeds the 0.3 per cent THC threshold, the licensee is legally required to notify NACOC immediately for proper disposal.
"If you comply with the regulations, the opportunities are significant. If you abuse the system, we will revoke the license and enforce the law," he warned.
Economic Growth and Medical Research
Industry stakeholders welcomed the licensing, citing vast potential for commercial expansion, foreign exchange earnings, and healthcare advancements.
Juliana Addo-Yobo, Founder of Juliopta Limited, described the milestone as a transformative business opportunity, noting that the company plans to start with local cultivation before expanding into seed importation and exportation.
"The licensing process is demanding and expensive, but we met all the requirements. We are now focused on building a business that serves both local and international markets," Addo-Yobo said, adding that the company will strictly adhere to land size and operational limits.
Similarly, Michael Akuamoah Boateng, an Agronomist at MJ Adom Limited, highlighted the social and scientific benefits of the sector. He revealed that MJ Adom Limited is partnering with the Centre for Plant Medicine Research to explore the therapeutic applications of locally grown plants.
"This industry creates jobs, supports research, and brings export earnings. We are ready to begin cultivation and contribute to the growth of the economy," Boateng noted.
Licence Validity
The issued licenses are valid for three years and remain subject to strict operational compliance, routine inspections, and periodic renewal by NACOC.
