We’ve Not Authorised Anyone In Cannabis Licence Acquisition- NACOC

The Narcotic Control Commission (NACOC) has warned the public against engaging any second party for a cannabis licence.

In a press statement, it reiterated that it has not authorised, accredited, or certified any individual, group, or association to facilitate, broker, or secure the acquisition or issuance of cannabis licences.

It therefore warned prospective applicants against making payments to anyone purporting to act as an agent, intermediary, or consultant for cannabis licensing.

“All licensing processes will be conducted only by the Commission, not through third parties,” it emphasised, adding that official fees and charges applicable to the licensing process will be published by the Commission upon approval by Parliament.

It furthered that Section 43 of the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), as amended by the Narcotics Control Commission (Amendment) Act,   2023 (Act 1100), empowers the Minister for the Interior to grant licences to cultivate cannabis with a THC content not exceeding 0.3% on a dry weight basis, for industrial purposes (fibre or seed) or for medicinal purposes.

It affirmed that the provision does not authorise recreational use.

“NACOC, in accordance with the Narcotics Control Commission (Cultivation and Management of Cannabis) Regulations, 2023 (L.I. 2475), has instituted the    necessary policies and measures to ensure a transparent, fair, and robust cannabis   regulatory regime for the benefit of all Ghanaians.”

Until the framework is finalised and licences are duly issued, it stated that the possession, use, cultivation, sale, and trafficking of cannabis and other narcotic drugs remain prohibited by law, except as expressly permitted under Act 1019.

Story by Hajara Fuseini

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