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Cannabis — ProhibitedAfrica

Ethiopia

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

Ethiopia prohibits cannabis under its Food, Medicine and Health Care Administration and Control Proclamation. Despite prohibition, cannabis (locally called 'ganja') is widely cultivated in parts of the country, particularly in the eastern regions, and enforcement varies significantly by area.

Ask the Expert about Ethiopia
Regulator
Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority
Key Legislation
Food, Medicine and Health Care Administration and Control Proclamation No. 661/2009
Year Legalized
N/A
Program Size
N/A — Prohibited

Key Facts

  • Cannabis cultivation, sale, and possession are illegal under Ethiopian law with penalties including imprisonment of up to 10 years
  • Ethiopia is a significant cannabis-producing country, particularly in the eastern Harar and Dire Dawa regions where it has deep cultural roots
  • The Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority (EFDA) classifies cannabis as a controlled substance with no accepted medical use
  • Traditional cannabis use (called 'chat' culture alongside khat) persists in some communities despite national prohibition
  • There is no active cannabis reform movement in Ethiopia, and the government has shown no indication of relaxing its prohibition stance

Key Legislation

Food, Medicine and Health Care Administration and Control Proclamation No. 661/2009

Regulatory Body

Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority (EFDA)

Country Info
ISO Code
ET
Region
Africa
Tier
Tier 4 — Prohibited
Status
Cannabis — Prohibited
Sources
Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority (EFDA)
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.