NACOC To Begin Licensing for Medicinal and Industrial Cannabis Cultivation

NACOC To Begin Licensing for Medicinal and Industrial Cannabis Cultivation

The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has announced plans to begin licensing the cultivation of cannabis for medicinal and industrial purposes in Ghana, following Parliament’s approval of the regulatory and cost framework to operationalise the policy.

In a press statement dated February 11, 2026, NACOC said the licensing regime will regulate the controlled cultivation, processing, and use of cannabis with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content not exceeding 0.3 percent for strictly medicinal and industrial applications.

The Commission indicated that licences will be issued only to qualified entities that meet strict regulatory requirements. These include adherence to approved security protocols, implementation of product traceability systems, compliance with quality assurance standards, and full observance of all relevant laws and regulations governing cannabis production.

NACOC cautioned prospective applicants to deal directly and exclusively with the Commission through its Cannabis Regulations Department (CRD). It further warned the public to avoid engaging individuals or organisations claiming to facilitate the licensing process and urged applicants to follow only officially approved procedures and guidelines.

Despite the move to regulate cannabis for medicinal and industrial use, NACOC reiterated that recreational use of cannabis remains illegal in Ghana.

The Commission also disclosed that it will collaborate with relevant ministries, departments, and agencies, including the Ministry of Interior, the Ghana Standards Authority, and the Food and Drugs Authority, to ensure effective implementation, monitoring, and enforcement of the licensing framework.

NACOC emphasised that the initiative aims to support lawful innovation and industrial development while safeguarding public health and safety.

The statement was signed by Francis Opoku Amoah, Acting Director of Public Affairs and International Relations at the Narcotics Control Commission.