Is CBD legal in Tanzania? – Update 2024

TL;DR

In Tanzania, as of 2022, the use, sale, purchase, possession, and cultivation of Cannabidiol (CBD) remains illegal under the law due to its classification as a narcotic drug. There is little to no differentiation between CBD, a non-psychoactive compound derived from hemp, and other cannabis products containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which are psychoactive. As cannabis legality continues to evolve globally, there is yet no indication of imminent changes to the Tanzanian legislation.

Key Legal Aspects

Status	Explanation
Use	Illegal
Possession	Illegal, regardless of amount
Differentiation from THC-containing Products	None, currently treated the same under the law

Overview of CBD Legislation

CBD refers to cannabidiol, one of the many compounds found in hemp and marijuana plants. It is touted for its potential therapeutic benefits, though it does not induce the ‘high’ associated with THC-containing cannabis products. Its legal status varies globally, with some regions differentiating between hemp-derived CBD (with low THC content) and marijuana-derived CBD (with higher THC content). In Tanzania, CBD is classified as a narcotic drug under the Drug Control and Enforcement Act of 2015. This legislation does not differentiate between the various cannabis compounds, making their use, possession, sale, and cultivation illegal. The country does not presently recognize the distinction between marijuana and hemp in terms of THC content nor between CBD and other forms of cannabis. The Drug Control and Enforcement Authority (DCEA) is the governing body in charge of cannabis regulation in Tanzania, including CBD. At this time, there are no reported plans for the reclassification or regulation of CBD and other differently-THC-compounded products.

Historical Context

Cannabis, including CBD, has long been illegal in Tanzania. The 2015 Drug Control and Enforcement Act further solidified this status by imposing stricter penalties for cannabis-related offenses, including those related to CBD.

Possession, Use, Cultivation, and Sales

The current law prohibits all forms of possession, use, cultivation, and sales of cannabis, including CBD, in Tanzania. Importing and exporting CBD are also illegal. Those caught contravening these laws can face severe penalties.

Enforcement and Penalties

Enforcement of the strict anti-cannabis laws in Tanzania, including CBD legislation, is robust. Penalties for non-compliance range from hefty fines to lengthy prison sentences. As of now, there are no exemptions for medical use of CBD in the country.

Comparative Analysis

Compared to many Western countries where CBD laws are gradually liberalizing, Tanzania’s strict cannabis laws remain firmly in effect. In most African countries, use and possession of CBD remains illegal, with a few exceptions such as South Africa, which has recently decriminalized personal use and cultivation. The reluctance to differentiate between CBD and other cannabis products is common in regions with rigid anti-cannabis legislation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the use, sales, and possession of CBD remain illegal in Tanzania as of 2022. Enforcement of this law is strict and penalties for non-compliance are severe. Given the current global trend, public or governmental pressure could inevitably stir changes to these laws, but for now, the legal environment for CBD in Tanzania remains stringent.

Read about the legal situation in countries around Tanzania

• Kenya
• Uganda
• Rwanda

Read about the legal situation surrounding Cannabis in Tanzania

Is Cannabis legal in Tanzania?