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Cannabis — ProhibitedAfrica

Central African Republic

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

The Central African Republic prohibits cannabis under its penal code and national drug control laws. Despite widespread illicit cultivation in rural areas driven by poverty and instability, the government maintains criminal penalties for cannabis-related activities. Ongoing armed conflict and limited state capacity have made consistent enforcement difficult across much of the country.

Ask the Expert about Central African Republic
Regulator
Ministry of Justice; Ministry of Public Health; National Police
Key Legislation
Penal Code of the Central African Republic; Ordinance No. 88.005 on Narcotic Drugs
Year Legalized
N/A
Program Size
N/A — Prohibited

Key Facts

  • Cannabis cultivation and trafficking are criminalized under the CAR penal code, with prison sentences of up to 10 years for trafficking offenses
  • Cannabis (locally known as 'chanvre') is widely cultivated in rural and conflict-affected regions, often as a cash crop for armed groups
  • Limited state authority outside the capital Bangui means drug enforcement is inconsistent across the country
  • The CAR is a signatory to the 1961 UN Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs and the 1988 UN Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs
  • There are no active legislative reform efforts or advocacy movements for cannabis decriminalization in the Central African Republic

Key Legislation

Penal Code of the Central African Republic; Ordinance No. 88.005 on Narcotic Drugs

Regulatory Body

Ministry of Justice; Ministry of Public Health; National Police

Country Info
ISO Code
CF
Region
Africa
Tier
Tier 4 — Prohibited
Status
Cannabis — Prohibited
Sources
UNODC — Central African Republic Country Profile
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.