Ghana is positioning itself to become a major player in the global industrial hemp and therapeutic cannabis market, with the Interior Minister, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, outlining plans to develop a “world-class” sector capable of competing with leading producers worldwide.
The Minister said the initiative is designed to unlock economic opportunities while maintaining strict regulatory oversight. He emphasised that the focus is on industrial hemp and cannabis for medicinal and therapeutic purposes, not recreational use. According to him, the government is committed to building a tightly controlled framework that prioritises public health, safety and national security.
Under the proposed structure, cultivation, processing and export will be subject to licensing requirements and compliance standards to ensure accountability throughout the value chain. Officials believe this approach will reduce illegal cultivation, attract responsible investors and create new opportunities for farmers, researchers and entrepreneurs.
The move is part of a broader strategy to diversify Ghana’s economy by tapping into emerging global markets. Industrial hemp has applications in pharmaceuticals, textiles, cosmetics and food production, offering the potential to generate foreign exchange and stimulate rural development.
The Minister expressed confidence that, with proper regulation and oversight, Ghana can establish a competitive and reputable cannabis industry that balances economic growth with strong public safeguards.

