The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has cautioned the public against engaging third parties claiming to facilitate the acquisition of cannabis licences in Ghana.
In a statement issued and signed by Francis Opoku Amoah, Acting Director of Public Affairs and International Relations on Monday, September 1, NACOC stressed that it has not authorised, accredited, or certified any individual, group, or association to act as a broker, intermediary, or consultant for cannabis licensing.
The Commission emphasized that all licensing processes are conducted solely by NACOC and not through third parties.
“Prospective applicants are advised not to pay money to anyone purporting to act as an agent, intermediary, or consultant for cannabis licensing,” the statement read.
The Commission further assured that official fees and charges applicable to the licensing process will be made public after Parliamentary approval. It urged the public to exercise patience while Parliament finalises procedures for acquiring cannabis licences and passes the relevant bill.
NACOC clarified that under Section 43 of the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), as amended by Act 1100 of 2023, the Minister for the Interior is empowered to grant licences for the cultivation of cannabis with a THC content not exceeding 0.3% on a dry weight basis, strictly for industrial purposes (such as fibre or seed) or for medicinal use. Recreational use remains prohibited.
The Commission said it has already instituted policies and measures under the Narcotics Control Commission (Cultivation and Management of Cannabis) Regulations, 2023 (L.I. 2475), to ensure a transparent, fair, and robust cannabis regulatory regime.
NACOC emphasized that until the licensing framework is finalised and duly issued, the possession, use, cultivation, sale, and trafficking of cannabis and other narcotic drugs remain illegal, except as expressly permitted under Act 1019.
