The government of Uganda has granted an experimental cannabis licence to Bright Sparks Farm Limited. This licence allows them to grow, process, and export medicinal cannabis (marijuana) under strict regulations. The licence, signed by the Minister of Internal Affairs, Gen (rtd) Kahinda Otafiire, was issued on July 21. Additionally, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) also received a copy. As part of the licence conditions, the Uganda Police Force will supervise the farm’s operations.
The licence is non-transferable. It requires the farm to operate in Kisweramindu and Lwampanga in Nakasongola District, as well as Muwanya in Luweero District. Therefore, security forces will monitor the farm’s activities closely. This follows the company’s earlier application in June, in which it requested permission to grow, process, and export medicinal cannabis.
In February 2023, President Museveni approved the Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act 2023. Notably, this law permits the cultivation and use of cannabis strictly for medicinal purposes. It also imposes severe penalties for violations. Anyone caught cultivating prohibited plants without the proper licence faces a fine of Shs2.4 billion, imprisonment for five years, or both.
The law also regulates other substances, including Khat, or mairungi. However, while the law aims to control substance abuse, some local leaders are concerned that people are misinterpreting it. For example, Mr. Superito Kirori, chairperson of Zirobwe Sub-county in Luweero District, reported that some farmers are secretly growing cannabis. They mistakenly believe the law allows them to cultivate it for personal medicinal use. As a result, he emphasized the need for better public awareness about the law.
The Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act 2023 controls the cultivation, processing, and trafficking of narcotics. In addition, it mandates the confiscation of property linked to illegal drug trafficking. By aligning with international conventions, the law strengthens the regulation of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. Ultimately, it aims to prevent misuse and ensure stricter enforcement.
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