NACOB Warns Against Unauthorized Cannabis Licensing Activities.
The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has issued a stern caution against engaging in unauthorized activities related to the acquisition of licenses for cannabis, also known as “ntampi”, “weed”, or “ganja”.
In a recent statement, NACOC reiterated that it has not granted authorization to any individuals or groups to facilitate the licensing process for cannabis. The Commission urged all prospective applicants to refrain from transacting with any agents or intermediaries claiming to offer assistance in obtaining cannabis licenses.
Acting Director of Public Affairs & International Relations, Francis Opoku Amoah, emphasized that all licensing procedures will be exclusively handled by the Commission itself, with official fees and charges to be disclosed following parliamentary approval.
NACOC emphasized the importance of patience, awaiting the conclusion of the legislation process by Parliament concerning the acquisition of cannabis licenses. The Commission assured the public of a transparent and fair regulatory system in line with the Narcotics Control Commission (Cultivation and Management of Cannabis) Regulations, 2023.
Under Section 43 of the Narcotics Control Commission Act, cultivation licenses for cannabis with THC content not exceeding 0.3% are granted for industrial or medicinal purposes only, emphasizing that recreational use remains prohibited by law until further notice.
NACOC emphasized the continued illegality of possession, use, cultivation, sale, and trafficking of cannabis and other narcotic drugs until the regulatory framework is finalized and licenses are officially issued. Updates regarding the licensing process will be communicated solely through NACOC’s verified channels.
Parliament’s 2023 approval of the legalization of cannabis cultivation and management sets the stage for a new era, with Minister of the Interior, Ambrose Dery, clarifying that the move does not equate to legalizing recreational weed. The emphasis remains on industrial and medicinal use, with strict regulations in place to ensure compliance with the law.