Ghana

Ghana enacted the Narcotics Control Commission Act (Act 1019) in 2020, replacing the older 1990 narcotics law and establishing the Narcotics Control Commission with enhanced authority over drug control including cannabis. While recreational cannabis remains illegal, Parliament has actively debated legislation to permit cultivation of industrial hemp with low THC content for export and manufacturing. Agricultural regions have pushed for regulated cannabis cultivation to support economic development and job creation.

Ask the Expert about Ghana

Regulator

Narcotics Control Commission

Key Legislation

Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020

Year Legalized

N/A — hemp/medical legislation under active debate

Program Size

Pre-commercial; legislative framework...

Key Facts

The Narcotics Control Commission Act (Act 1019) of 2020 modernized Ghana's drug control framework under the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC)
Parliamentary debate has centered on legalizing industrial hemp cultivation with THC limits below 0.3% for export and manufacturing
Ghana's cannabis tradition includes historical use in traditional medicine and cultural practices, particularly in northern regions
NACOC operates under the Ministry of the Interior and coordinates with INTERPOL and UNODC on drug enforcement
Multiple private sector groups and agricultural associations have lobbied for regulated cannabis cultivation citing economic benefits and job creation potential

Key Legislation

Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019)

Regulatory Body

Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC)

Country Info

ISO Code

Region

Africa

Tier

Tier 2 — Emerging

Status

Cannabis — Emerging Program

Sources

Narcotics Control Commission (Ghana)Parliament of Ghana

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.