Cannabis is illegal in Lesotho, but mainly tolerated.
Cannabis is widely cultivated, making it Lesotho's most significant cash crop.
In 2017 Lesotho became the first African nation to grant a license for the cultivation of medical cannabis.
Lesotho has become a major player in the legal cannabis market, with local industries obtaining the first export licence for medicinal cannabis flowers to be issued to an African cultivator by the EU.
The high-quality cannabis plants that grow in the country's highlands are in high demand, with most of South Africa's legal cannabis coming from Lesotho. However, illegal cultivation and consumption continue, driven by the complicity of corrupt officials, although anti-smuggling legislation has curbed illicit activities.
The legalisation of cannabis has resulted in a decreased number of illicit growers, but many small-scale farmers continue to do so because of the difficulty of obtaining a licence.
Recreational use and possession of cannabis remain illegal.
Drugs of Abuse Act 2008.
The Medicines Control and Medical Devices Control Bill 2018 Act No. 5.
Drug of Abuse (Cannabis) Regulations Act of 2018.
The Drug of Abuse (Cannabis) Regulations Act of 2018 governs the use and cultivation of cannabis, and provides that it may only be cultivated for medicinal and scientific purposes, with valid licenses to do so.
Any mode of use is punishable by a minimum of 5 years in prison or a fine (Section 9, Drugs of Abuse Act).
The Drug of Abuse (Cannabis) Regulations Act of 2018 allows for medicinal cannabis cultivation.
Lesotho Narcotics Bureau approved permit holders can cultivate flowerings, extract active pharmaceutical ingredients, and produce medicines; Export and import medicinal cannabis products.
Please link to this page if you mention it in an article or newsletter.
<a href="https://www.daggadiaries.com/countries/cannabis-in-lesotho">Legality of Cannabis in Lesotho</a>
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.