Ghana has taken a major step forward in regulated cannabis development by officially opening applications for licenses to cultivate and manage industrial and medicinal cannabis. The Narcotics Control Commission announced the launch on March 11, 2026, following the historic rollout of the national licensing regime on February 26, 2026, led by the Minister for the Interior, Hon. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak.
This initiative implements Section 43 of the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), as amended, along with Legislative Instrument 2475. The framework focuses exclusively on low-THC cannabis, with a maximum content of 0.3 per cent on a dry weight basis, to support industrial uses such as high-quality fibre and seed production, as well as medicinal applications including pharmaceutical and health-related products.
The program covers eleven key areas in the cannabis value chain, including cultivation, processing, research, storage, transport, import, export, and sales. Authorities emphasise strict oversight to harness economic benefits, create jobs, and advance public health while preventing recreational misuse, which remains illegal.
Applications operate through a fully digital process on the official portal at portal.ncc.gov.gh or via www.ncc.gov.gh. Prospective applicants select their license category, complete guided forms, upload required documents, and complete payments securely using a Visa card, Mobile Money, or NIB Bank vouchers. The system provides real-time tracking and aims to make the process accessible nationwide.
This development positions Ghana as a leader in regulated cannabis markets in Africa, with the potential to attract investment and drive sustainable growth in agriculture and pharmaceuticals under tight regulatory controls.
