Cameroon

Medical cannabis is prohibited in Cameroon. Severe criminal penalties may apply for possession, use, or trafficking.

Cannabis is illegal in Cameroon under Law No. 97/019 on drug control. The law criminalizes all cannabis-related activities with strict penalties, and Cameroon is a significant cannabis-producing country in Central Africa despite the prohibition.

Ask the Expert about Cameroon

Regulator

Comite National de Lutte contre la Drogue

Key Legislation

Law No. 97/019 on the Control of Narcotic Drugs, Psychotropic Substances, and Precursors

Year Legalized

N/A

Program Size

N/A — Prohibited

Key Facts

Possession of cannabis carries penalties of 1 to 5 years imprisonment and fines under the 1997 drug control law
Drug trafficking convictions can result in 5 to 20 years imprisonment, with sentences up to life for major trafficking operations
Cameroon is one of the largest cannabis producers in Central Africa, with significant cultivation in the western highlands and southwestern regions
Cannabis is locally known as 'chanvre indien' and its widespread illicit cultivation presents ongoing enforcement challenges for authorities
There are no legislative proposals or reform movements toward decriminalization or medical cannabis in Cameroon

Key Legislation

Law No. 97/019 on the Control of Narcotic Drugs, Psychotropic Substances, and Precursors (1997)

Regulatory Body

Comite National de Lutte contre la Drogue (CNLD); Ministry of Justice; Gendarmerie Nationale

Country Info

ISO Code

Region

Africa

Tier

Tier 4 — Prohibited

Status

Cannabis — Prohibited

Sources

Republic of Cameroon — Government Portal

Disclaimer: This information is for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Cannabis regulations change frequently. Always verify with official sources and local legal counsel before making compliance decisions.