Ghana to commence issuing licence for medicinal and industrial cannabis cultivation
In a statement dated 11 February 2026, signed by Francis Opoku Amoah, Acting Director of Public Affairs and International Relations, NACOC said the licensing system will cover the controlled cultivation, processing and use of cannabis with THC not exceeding 0.3%.
Ghana’s Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) says it is preparing to start issuing licences for the medicinal and industrial cultivation of cannabis, after Parliament approved the fees and regulatory framework.
In a statement dated 11 February 2026, signed by Francis Opoku Amoah, Acting Director of Public Affairs and International Relations, NACOC said the licensing system will cover the controlled cultivation, processing and use of cannabis with THC not exceeding 0.3%.
NACOC said licences will only go to qualified entities that can meet tough requirements, including:
strong security measures
traceability of products from source to end use
quality assurance standards
full compliance with relevant laws and regulations
The commission urged applicants to deal only with NACOC, through its Cannabis Regulations Department (CRD), and to ignore anyone claiming they can “facilitate” licences.
It said applicants should follow only the official process and guidelines.
NACOC stressed that recreational cannabis remains illegal in Ghana, despite the new framework for industrial and medical use.
NACOC said it will work with key institutions such as the Ministry of Interior, the Ghana Standards Authority, and the Food and Drugs Authority to implement, monitor and enforce the system.
The commission said the goal is to support lawful innovation and industrial growth while protecting public health and safety.
Low-THC cannabis (0.3% or less) is typically used for products like fibre, cosmetics and some medical applications, while higher-THC cannabis associated with recreational use remains prohibited.
