The Deputy Director-General in charge of Enforcement, Control and Elimination at the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), Lawyer Alexander Twum-Barimah, has disclosed that the Commission is nearing the final stages of reviewing applications for cannabis licenses, with successful applicants expected to receive approval to commence operations soon.
Speaking at the Kwahu Business Forum, Lawyer Twum-Barimah indicated that the licensing process has been thorough and deliberate to ensure that only applicants who meet all regulatory, legal, and security requirements are granted permits under Ghanaโs cannabis regulatory framework.
According to him, NACOC remains committed to promoting a well-regulated cannabis industry that aligns with national laws while creating legitimate economic opportunities. โWe are carefully reviewing all applications submitted under the various license categories. Those who fully satisfy the criteria will soon be issued their licenses to begin operations,โ he stated.
During his visit to the NACOC exhibition stand at the forum, the Deputy Director-General interacted with potential investors and stakeholders, where officials from the Commissionโs Cannabis Regulation Department provided detailed briefings on the different categories of cannabis licenses.
The engagement formed part of NACOCโs broader effort to educate the public and attract responsible investment into the emerging cannabis sector, particularly for industrial and medicinal purposes. Officials clarified requirements related to cultivation, processing, distribution, and export, emphasising strict compliance with regulatory standards.
Participants at the forum welcomed the initiative, noting that greater transparency and stakeholder engagement are critical to building confidence in the sector. Many investors expressed interest in exploring opportunities within the legal cannabis space, citing its potential to contribute to job creation and economic growth.
Lawyer Twum-Barimah reiterated that while the Commission is opening avenues for legitimate cannabis businesses, it will continue to enforce strict controls to prevent abuse and illegal activities. He stressed that all license holders would be subject to continuous monitoring and compliance checks.
โThe goal is to strike a balance between enabling economic development and safeguarding public health and security,โ he added.
The announcement signals a significant step in Ghanaโs evolving cannabis policy landscape, as the country positions itself to harness the economic benefits of a regulated cannabis industry while maintaining firm control over its use and distribution.
NACOC has assured stakeholders that it will communicate further updates on the licensing process as the Commission works to ensure a transparent, fair, and robust regulatory system.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com
