CAN CANNABIS BOOST AFRICA’S ECONOMY?

Since the creation of humankind, humans have used many plants as either food or medicine for their wellbeing. However, one plant that stands out from the lot is cannabis. With conflicting views surrounding its inception, one thing stands out for sure. And that is the medicinal and recreational potencies of the plant. Already made legal in most nations globally, the plant remains illegal in many countries in Africa except a few nations.

However, things are changing gradually, and the tables have turned. Because of that, many African nations are having a rethink when it comes to their strict cannabis laws.

Cultivation Of Cannabis In Africa

As many nations in the African continent continue to welcome an open approach towards the legalization of cannabis medicinal and even recreational uses, the legal cannabis market is bound to grow geometrically. According to leafly.com, the global cannabis market championing the legal cannabis trade could reach $43 billion by 2024. Furthermore, the demand for legal cannabis in Europe alone should reach $37 billion. Almost $4 billion from the figures recorded in 2019.

The Growth Of Cannabis Cultivation In Africa

With the United States, Canada, and a host of other European nations advocating for the legalization of cannabis, it was only a matter of time before the African continent followed suit. In that light, Lesotho in 2017 became the first nation on the African continent to grant an administrative license for commercial cultivation. Specifically for medical and scientific purposes.

Since then, many nations across the continent are gradually following suit. They include

  • Zimbabwe
  • South Africa
  • Malawi
  • Eswatini
  • Zambia
  • Uganda
  • And Rwanda

With that said, nations such as Ghana, Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania all have different tags associated with cannabis. Ghana, for starters, has authorized the production of specific cannabis strains with a THC of less than 0.3%.  It is worth noting that Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Kenya all produce cannabis strictly for exports.

Africa As An Ideal Cannabis Cultivation Hotspot

Unlike in most parts of Europe and the United States, where LED grow lights are necessary for indoor cannabis cultivation, Africa’s climate suits cannabis cultivation. With such benefits, there is no limit to what the African continent may achieve through cannabis. Therefore it would not be surprising if Africa becomes one of the most significant players in the global legal cannabis trade in the future.

Global Potential of Africa’s Cannabis Market

The African continent has all it takes to be a big game player. Here are some key facts that set Africa apart from other cannabis-producing nations across the globe.

  • Warm weather
  • Rich soil
  • Abundant sunshine

The tips mentioned above play a vital role in the cultivation and growth of cannabis. With such attributes sandwiched with hardworking Africans, there is no limit to what this continent could achieve through cannabis.