2026 is the make-or-break year for Ghana’s cannabis industry – Chamber

• Posted on January 12, 2026January 12, 2026
• by Nana Kwesi Coomson
• Comment

The Chamber of Cannabis Industry Ghana has called for a careful and coordinated implementation of Ghana’s medicinal and industrial cannabis policy in 2026 to maximise economic benefits while safeguarding the public interest. 

Dr Mark Darko, Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber, said the new year should mark a shift from policy aspiration to execution, following the legalisation of cannabis for medicinal and industrial use. 

“This is a year that calls not for speculation, but for clarity of purpose, institutional readiness and strategic patience,” he said in a New Year message to stakeholders across the emerging industry. 

Dr Darko noted that while stakeholders were awaiting the finalisation of fees, charges and operational guidelines, foundational work in the sector had continued.  

He cited progress in standard-setting, capacity development, and intensified local and international engagement. 

“These are the often unseen but essential building blocks of a credible and sustainable industry,” he said. 

Dr Darko said a properly regulated cannabis industry could support pharmaceutical development, supply industrial raw materials, generate export earnings and create skilled employment opportunities, particularly for the youth and women. 

He urged entrepreneurs, investors, farmers and researchers to prioritise compliance, training and alignment with global best practices rather than pursue short-term gains. 

“The jurisdictions that succeed in cannabis are those that build deliberately, guided by data, standards and long-term national interest,” he said. 

Dr Darko reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to advocacy, capacity building and stakeholder coordination. 

He said that collaboration among government, regulators, industry players and civil society would position Ghana as a responsible participant in the global cannabis value chain. 

Ghana amended its narcotics laws in 2020 to permit the cultivation of cannabis with low tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content for medicinal and industrial purposes. 

The Chamber has consistently maintained that cannabis-based innovations could support Ghana’s broader economic transformation if implemented within a strong regulatory framework.