Eswatini

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

Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) prohibits cannabis under the Opium and Habit-Forming Drugs Act, though the country is one of Africa's largest cannabis producers. Despite strict laws, cannabis cultivation is widespread in rural areas and is a significant part of the informal economy.

Ask the Expert about Eswatini

Regulator

Royal Eswatini Police Service / Ministry of Health

Key Legislation

Opium and Habit-Forming Drugs Act of 1922

Year Legalized

N/A

Program Size

N/A — Prohibited

Key Facts

Cannabis possession and cultivation are criminal offenses punishable by fines and imprisonment of up to 15 years
Eswatini is one of the largest cannabis-producing countries in southern Africa, with extensive illicit cultivation in rural highlands
King Mswati III has publicly opposed any cannabis legalization despite economic arguments from reform advocates
Cannabis (known locally as 'dagga' or 'insangu') has traditional and cultural significance in Swazi communities
There have been periodic discussions about legalizing cannabis for economic development, but no formal legislative proposals have advanced

Key Legislation

Opium and Habit-Forming Drugs Act of 1922 (amended)

Regulatory Body

Royal Eswatini Police Service / Ministry of Health

Country Info

ISO Code

Region

Africa

Tier

Tier 4 — Prohibited

Status

Cannabis — Prohibited

Sources

Government of the Kingdom of Eswatini

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.