Ghana has taken another step towards developing a regulated cannabis industry after the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) issued cultivation licences to two companies for medicinal and industrial purposes.
MJ Adom Limited and Juliopta Limited became the first companies to receive approval to cultivate cannabis with a tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content not exceeding 0.3 per cent, the legal limit permitted under Ghana’s regulatory framework.
The Director-General of NACOC, Major General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, said the approval followed a strict evaluation process designed to ensure that only qualified companies participate in the sector.
According to him, applicants were subjected to technical assessments, inspections of proposed cultivation sites and reviews by a multi-agency committee before their applications were forwarded to the Minister for the Interior for final approval.
He emphasised that cannabis cultivation remains prohibited unless it is carried out under a valid licence and within the approved THC threshold.
Major General Mantey warned that licence holders who breach the regulations, exceed approved cultivation areas or engage in unauthorised activities risk having their licences withdrawn and facing legal action.
He added that NACOC would continue monitoring operations through regular inspections, including unannounced visits, to ensure compliance with the conditions attached to the licences.
Founder of Juliopta Limited, Juliana Addo-Yobo, described the approval as an important opportunity for the company and Ghana’s emerging cannabis sector.
She said the company intends to begin cultivation and later explore areas such as seed importation and export opportunities while operating within the rules set by authorities.
An agronomist with MJ Adom Limited, Michael Akuamoah Boateng, said the industry could contribute to job creation, scientific research and export development.
He noted that the company’s partnership with the Centre for Plant Medicine Research would support studies into medicinal applications and the development of products from locally grown cannabis.
The licences issued by NACOC are valid for three years and will remain subject to compliance with regulatory requirements and possible renewal.
