Unlocking Ghana’s Economic Potential: The Case for Cannabis Legalization
In light of the 2025 budget statement and economic policy of the Government of Ghana, I am reiterating the crucial socioeconomic benefits of legalizing medical cannabis, as previously discussed in my monologue [Ghana Must Work series on The Hot Seat] shared on YouTube in December 2022.
The budget, presented to Parliament by Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson (MP), Minister for Finance, emphasizes the need to address the legalities surrounding cannabis cultivation and management in Ghana.
Legalizing cannabis in Ghana is not just a matter of economic gain but also a solution to youth unemployment. Further delays would result in significant economic losses for the country. It is important for Parliament to prioritize Item 734 of the budget and economic policy statement to address the legal hurdles surrounding the cultivation and management of cannabis for all purposes.
My monologue [Ghana Must Work series on The Hot Seat], inspired by an article in Talking Drugs from September 2022, highlighted the constitutional challenges Ghana faces regarding the legalization of cannabis. The Supreme Court’s ruling to nullify Section 43 of the Narcotics Control Commission Act 2020 (Act 1019) in July 2022 questioned the procedural integrity of the adoption process.
I emphasized the need for swift and decisive actions by Ghana’s judiciary to combat corruption and financial malfeasance, which continue to plague the country’s development and economic stability. Establishing legal precedents to fight corruption and ensure accountability is essential for the nation’s progress, rather than blocking opportunities for its people and economy.
The Ministry of Finance’s commitment to implementing Section 43 of the Narcotics Control Commission Act and regulations is a positive step toward realizing the benefits of legal cannabis cultivation in Ghana. The drafted guidelines and associated charges mentioned in Item 734 of the budget statement demonstrate a forward-thinking strategy to leverage the industry’s potential for the nation’s development and economic well-being.
It’s time for Ghana to legalize medical cannabis. Many countries globally have embraced cannabis for various purposes, and it’s crucial for Ghana to tap into this market. Fast-tracking the parliamentary process regarding Section 43 is ideal, especially given recent allegations of drug trafficking and money laundering at Kotoka International Airport. President John Mahama has initiated investigations into these claims, emphasizing the seriousness of the issue and the need for a transparent inquiry.
By legalizing cannabis, Ghana can regulate its production, distribution, sale, import, and export, following the successful models of countries like Canada. This move would allow for official channels of trade, ensuring economic benefits while preventing revenue losses, crime, and illegal underground market activities associated with its prohibition.
Contrary to misconceptions, legalizing cannabis does not lead to widespread mental health and societal issues; proper regulation ensures responsible usage. Understanding the difference between cannabis and marijuana is essential. While both terms are often used interchangeably, cannabis refers to all products derived from the Cannabis sativa plant, while marijuana specifically refers to the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)-rich parts of the plant. Understanding this distinction is key to debunking the generalized view about its effects on mental health, which is vital for dispelling common misconceptions about its negative impact.
The economic potential of the cannabis market is substantial, with projections indicating significant growth. Currently valued at over $68.47 billion in 2025 globally, the market is forecasted to reach $83.3 billion by 2027, offering substantial revenue opportunities for countries embracing legalization. Tapping into this industry has enormous economic benefits for Ghana while ensuring transparent regulation and oversight.
Ghana risks missing out on this lucrative market, crucial for its struggling economy, if Parliament delays Item 734 of the 2025 budget to resolve the constitutional legal hurdles surrounding the cultivation and management of cannabis.
Ghana’s unique advantage lies in its ideal tropical environment and vast arable land, making it conducive to cultivating high-quality cannabis that could stand out globally, thriving exceptionally in the cannabis industry.
There is a compelling case for legalizing cannabis in Ghana, especially considering the challenges of unemployment and economic hardship. Looking at the success of other nations in legalizing cannabis, it’s time for Ghana to consider the legalization of medical cannabis, aligning with global trends and reaping the economic rewards associated with a regulated market.
Several countries and states in America have already embraced cannabis for various purposes:
- Recreational Use: Washington DC, Georgia, Mexico, Thailand, Netherlands, Uruguay, Colombia, Jamaica, Canada, Costa Rica, Czech Republic, Belize
- Commercial Use: Canada, Thailand, Uruguay
- Medical Use: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Denmark, Cyprus, Germany, Greece, Italy, Jamaica, Thailand, United Kingdom, Israel, South Africa, Malta, Peru, Rwanda, Portugal, Ecuador, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and many more.
By tapping into this industry, Ghana can significantly bolster its agricultural sector. It is a logical step for Ghana to capitalize on its natural advantages and contribute to its economic growth. The potential benefits are substantial, making the case for the timely legalization of cannabis in Ghana compelling.
The time is ripe for Ghana to seize this opportunity and harness the potential of cannabis cultivation for both individual prosperity and national development. The impending parliamentary proceedings to resolve the constitutional legalities around Section 43 to legalize cannabis for cultivation is a game-changer for Ghana’s economic landscape.
Ghana must work, Ghana can work – Let’s make Ghana work for all.
Eamn’s monologue, Ghana Must Work series on The Hot Seat
