Cannabis in Botswana

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Is cannabis legal in Botswana?

Cannabis is illegal in Botswana.

Despite the strict laws, cannabis is used widely in Botswana. It is regarded as medicinal, and there have been calls for its legalisation.

Cannabis is the most commonly used drug in Botswana, with police reporting an increase in cannabis smuggling through the southern border into the Central District.

The police struggle to contain cannabis imports, which they suspect come from South Africa. Local cultivators supply the local market, with most of the cannabis remaining in the country. Some of it is exported to European countries, primarily the Netherlands, the UK, and the US, usually through trans-shipment points in South Africa and/or West Africa.

Legislation

In June 2018, the Parliament of Botswana passed the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 2018.

The Act imposes penalties for various drug-related offences and provides a legal basis for the establishment of drug rehabilitation centres and the Drug Enforcement Agency.

The Drug Enforcement Agency has the following functions:

  • collecting, collating and disseminating information on the illegal use of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances;
  • receiving and investigating any complaint of alleged or suspected breach of the Act and, subject to the directives of the Director of Public Prosecutions, prosecuting offences under the Act;
  • addressing and advising government ministries and departments, public bodies, companies, institutions, statutory bodies and corporations on ways and means of preventing prohibited activities relating to narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, and suggesting measures, procedures or methods of work compatible with the proper performances of their duties that, in the opinion of the Agency, would reduce prohibited activities relating to narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances;
  • disseminating information intended to educate the public on the dangers and effects of drug abuse or psychotropic substance abuse; and
  • enlisting and fostering public support for countering drug abuse and psychotropic substance abuse.
References

1. Cannabis in Botswana

2. Criminality in Botswana

Border Countries
  • Namibia
  • South Africa
  • Zimbabwe
  • Zambia
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    Disclaimer

    The legality of cannabis varies widely across Africa. In some countries, cannabis is illegal, and possession or use can result in severe penalties. In other countries, cannabis is legal or decriminalised for medical or recreational use.

    It is important to note that the laws and penalties related to cannabis can change frequently and vary by jurisdiction. It is always a good idea to research the current law and regulations before using or possessing cannabis in any country.

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