The Process Towards Cannabis Commercialization by Indigenous Communities for Medicinal Purposes in South Africa

Abstract

The possibilities of legalizing cannabis for commercial use in South Africa is investigated in this study using desktop research from documents, newsletters, and existing literature. Indigenous communities would gain immensely from the legalization of producing cannabis-infused products, as it would help to enhance the rural economy by producing jobs and create wealth. Cannabis is a significant component of African religion, culture, and beliefs, having been used by indigenous communities for generations and believed to have curative properties. Moreover, legalizing cannabis for industrial use makes sense not only for economic development but also for further medical research. According to the 2022 February speech of the Republic of South Africa's president, Mr. Cyril Ramaphosa, cannabis has the potential to be industrialized and commercialized in South Africa in the near future. The speech came after the Constitutional Court (ConCourt) in 2018 had already decriminalized and permitted cannabis use for both personal and medical purposes, which was previously illegal.