Is Cannabis legal in Ghana? – Update 2024

TL;DR: Is Cannabis Legal in Ghana?

In Ghana, cannabis remains illegal both for medical and recreational purposes.

	THC	CBD
Medical Use	Illegal	Illegal
Recreational Use	Illegal	Illegal

Introduction

The legal status of cannabis varies among countries. Some have adopted a more liberal stance, choosing decriminalization or even full legalization, while others, like Ghana, maintain strict policies against cannabis.

Overview of Cannabis Legislation

Yet, what do these terms mean? Legalization means cannabis is entirely legal. Decriminalization means the state would not prosecute someone for possession under a certain amount. Meanwhile, the terms Medical Use and Recreational Use refer to the purposes for which cannabis may be legally consumed.

Legal Status in Ghana

Historical Context

Despite cannabis’ illegal status, Ghana ranks third in the world in terms of cannabis consumption according to the UN’s World Drug Report. This irony is a legacy of colonial criminal legislation and post-independence socio-political factors.

Possession and Use

Cannabis possession and use are treated as serious criminal offenses in Ghana. Possession and use of any amount can result in a minimum prison sentence of 10 years.

Cultivation and Distribution

Growing or distributing cannabis in Ghana is also illegal, regardless of the purpose. Convictions for these offenses carry similar harsh penalties as possession and use.

Enforcement and Penalties

Despite the high usage of cannabis, Ghana’s Narcotics Control Board is combative against cannabis-related activities. This approach results in high imprisonment rates and associated social issues.

Medical Cannabis

While medical cannabis has been adopted in some jurisdictions, Ghana’s Narcotics Drugs Act gives no exceptions. No condition qualifies for a medical cannabis prescription.

Social and Economic Impact

Although data on the direct impact of these laws is limited, one could infer from the high imprisonment rates for drug offenses that the social cost is substantial.

Comparative Analysis

Comparatively, Ghana’s cannabis laws are among the harshest globally. Nations like Canada and Uruguay have legalized cannabis entirely, while many others have decriminalized or allowed medical use.

Future Outlook and Ongoing Debates

There is ongoing debate within scholarly and activist circles regarding decriminalization or legalization. However, change seems distant given the current political landscape and law enforcement approaches.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while global trends tend toward decriminalization or legalization, Ghana maintains strict cannabis laws. Change remains a contentious topic with an uncertain future.

Read about the legal situation in countries around Ghana

• Burkina Faso