21 Nov 2019

Minister of Agricultural Development and Food Security, Dr Edwin Dikoloti, says hemp (Cannabis sativa) is prohibited in Botswana in accordance with First Schedule of the Plant Protection Act of 2007, Cap 35:02.

The minister told Parliament on November 20 that hemp was also prohibited according to the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act of 2018, Part II Section 6(1). 

Part II Section 6(1) states that, “any person who, without lawful authority, cultivates any plant which can be used or consumed as a narcotic drug or psychotropic substance can be extracted, commits an offence and shall be liable to a fine not exceeding P500 000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 20 years or to both”.

“Therefore the growing of industrial hemp, it’s use and selling in Botswana is prohibited,” he said.

Dr Dikoloti said he was aware of a number of international studies on hemp from various sources and platforms, but was not aware of any local studies.

In regard to the global value of the industry and the number of people working in the industry as inquired by the Selebi Phikwe legislator, Mr Dithapelo Keorapetse, the minister said such information was in the public domain and accessible to all.

Mr Keorapetse had also asked him to state if there were any law or rules and regulations specifically prohibiting the growing of industrial hemp; use and selling of hemp products in Botswana and if so, to give an update on global and regional trends on hemp industry. He also wanted to know if Dr Dikoloti was aware of any local or international study on hemp. Ends