Ghana seeks Morocco’s expertise in cannabis regulation

Saturday 23 August 2025 - 11:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Ghana seeks Morocco’s expertise in cannabis regulation

Ghana’s Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has initiated collaboration with Morocco to study its advanced cannabis regulation framework. During a recent meeting in Accra with Morocco’s ambassador, Imane Quaadil, Ghanaian officials expressed interest in Morocco’s approach to licensing and managing cannabis cultivation for medical, pharmaceutical, and industrial purposes.

Learning from Morocco's experience

Led by NACOC’s Director General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, the Ghanaian delegation explored key aspects of Morocco’s cannabis regulatory system. These included license design, production chain monitoring, cooperative models for farmers, and procedures for certifying cannabis varieties.

Ambassador Quaadil confirmed arrangements for Ghanaian officials to visit Morocco in September to participate in observation and training programs. She emphasized Morocco’s commitment to sharing its expertise and building the capacity of African nations in drug control and agricultural governance.

Ghana’s cannabis regulation journey

In 2023, Ghana amended its legal framework to allow the cultivation of low-THC cannabis for strictly industrial and medical purposes. Licensing is overseen by the Ministry of Interior, while NACOC manages implementation and control. The country has also published detailed guidelines to ensure production quality, prevent diversion to recreational use, and create formal economic opportunities for farmers transitioning from informal cannabis markets.

Morocco’s cannabis regulation model

Morocco enacted Law 13-21 in 2021, legalizing cannabis cultivation for medical, pharmaceutical, and industrial applications while maintaining a strict ban on recreational use. The country established the National Agency for the Regulation of Cannabis Activities (ANRAC) to oversee licensing, traceability, and expansion of controlled cultivation areas.

Morocco has already completed its first legal cannabis harvest and continues to strengthen its regulatory framework. Its cooperative models and traceability systems provide a robust example for Ghana as it develops its own cannabis industry.

Strengthening bilateral cooperation

The collaboration between Rabat and Accra highlights growing ties between the two countries and underscores Morocco’s role as a leader in cannabis regulation in Africa. For Ghana, the partnership offers practical tools and insights to ensure the success of its medical and industrial cannabis initiatives.