The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has announced that it will soon begin implementing a licensing regime for the cultivation of cannabis strictly for medicinal and industrial purposes in Ghana.
The move. NACOC said it follows Parliament’s approval of the regulatory and cost framework to operationalise the licensing system for the controlled cultivation, processing, and use of cannabis with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content not exceeding 0.3 per cent.
According to NACOC, the regime covers cannabis cultivation “with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content not exceeding 0.3 per cent for medicinal and industrial purposes.”
The Commission stressed that licences will not be issued indiscriminately, stating that “licenses will be granted only to qualified entities that meet stringent requirements,” including security protocols, product traceability systems, quality assurance standards, and full compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
NACOC further issued a strong caution to prospective applicants, urging them to “deal directly and exclusively with NACOC through the Cannabis Regulations Department (CRD)” and to “avoid engaging with any individuals, groups, or associations claiming to facilitate licensing.” It also directed applicants to “follow only the officially approved licensing processes and guidelines.”
In a statement on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, while announcing the planned decision, the ommission reiteriated that “recreational use of cannabis remains illegal in Ghana.”
It added that it will collaborate with key state institutions to ensure proper oversight of the new framework.
“The Commission will work closely with relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, including the Ministry of Interior, Ghana Standards Authority, and the Food and Drugs Authority, to ensure effective implementation, monitoring, and enforcement of this framework,” the statement signed by Francis Opoku Amoah, Ag. Director, Public Affairs & International Relations added.
NACOC assured the public of its commitment to balancing regulation with development, stating, “We remain committed to safeguarding public health and safety while supporting lawful innovation and industrial development in Ghana.”
