The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has issued a stern warning to the public against individuals and organizations falsely claiming they can facilitate the acquisition of cannabis licences on behalf of prospective applicants.
In a statement released on Monday, September 1, 2025, the Commission emphasized that it has not authorized, accredited, or certified any person, association, or organization to broker cannabis licensing processes.
The warning comes as Ghana prepares to implement its cannabis licensing framework following Parliament’s approval of the Narcotics Control Commission Regulations in late 2023.
The legislation permits the cultivation, processing, and distribution of cannabis with 0.3% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content for medicinal and industrial purposes, marking a significant shift in the country’s drug policy.
NACOC reiterated that it has not authorised, accredited, or certified any person, association, or organisation to facilitate, broker, or secure cannabis licences on its behalf.
The Commission cautioned prospective applicants against paying money to persons posing as agents, consultants, or intermediaries who claim to have special connections or inside knowledge of the licensing process.
The Commission’s alert appears to be a response to increasing reports of fraudulent schemes targeting individuals and businesses eager to participate in Ghana’s emerging legal cannabis industry.
These unauthorized brokers allegedly approach potential applicants promising to expedite or guarantee licence approvals in exchange for upfront payments, exploiting public enthusiasm for the new sector.
NACOC stressed that all licensing processes will be handled solely by the Commission and not through intermediaries.
The organization made it clear that when the official licensing system becomes operational, applications will be processed directly through established government channels without the need for third-party facilitators.
Despite the legislative framework being in place, NACOC has not yet begun issuing actual licences. Deputy Director General Alexander Twum-Barimah has firmly stated that no licenses have been issued for the cultivation of cannabis in Ghana, and anyone currently planting cannabis is engaging in an illegal activity. This reinforces the Commission’s position that the industry remains in its preparatory phase.
The Commission has been actively preparing for the implementation of the licensing system. Recent engagements with international partners, including meetings with Morocco’s ambassador to Ghana to study successful regulatory frameworks, demonstrate NACOC’s commitment to establishing a robust and transparent licensing mechanism that will prevent the very irregularities it now warns against.
As part of its public education efforts, NACOC emphasized that until the licensing framework is fully operational and official applications are being accepted, the possession, use, cultivation, sale, and trafficking of cannabis and other narcotic drugs remain prohibited by law, except as expressly permitted under Act 1019.
The Commission advised members of the public to remain vigilant against fraudulent schemes and to report any individuals or groups claiming to offer cannabis licensing services.
Prospective participants in Ghana’s future legal cannabis industry are encouraged to wait for official announcements from NACOC regarding the commencement of the licensing application process.
This warning underscores the importance of maintaining the integrity of Ghana’s emerging cannabis regulatory framework and protecting potential investors and entrepreneurs from exploitation during this transitional period.
Story Written By Prince Asante Kwarteng | Kobby Kyei Media
