Minister of Interior, Mohammed-Muntaka Mubarak
The Minister of Interior, Mohammed-Muntaka Mubarak, has reiterated his commitment to the prompt implementation of the Narcotics Control Commission Amendment Bill, 2023.
During his vetting in Parliament on Friday, January 24, 2025, he assured the public that the bill, which is crucial to the nation’s approach to drug regulation and cannabis cultivation, will be addressed swiftly, with consultation from key stakeholders, including President John Dramani Mahama.
Muntaka emphasised his strategy, stating: “The board will be there, and the President will be made aware of the law. I believe that once it aligns with his vision, you can rest assured that I will lay it without delay. However, I will listen to the experts and make a decision afterward. I know my way around this House, and I know how to get things done.”
The foundation for this bill was laid on Wednesday, July 12, 2023, when Parliament passed the Narcotics Control Commission Amendment Bill, 2023.
The single-clause bill empowers the Minister of Interior to grant licenses for the cultivation of cannabis with controlled THC content.
Its passage marks a pivotal change in Ghana’s drug regulatory framework.
The Narcotics Control Commission has its roots in the Narcotics Drugs (Control, Enforcement, and Sanctions) Law, 1990/PNDC Act 236.
This act was part of Ghana’s commitment to the United Nations’ Comprehensive Multidisciplinary Outline (CMO) policy aimed at combating global drug trafficking and abuse.
Section 55 of this law led to the establishment of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), which replaced the Narcotics Control Board (NACOB).
The Commission’s mandate under Act 1019 includes enforcing narcotics laws, regulating the use of narcotic drugs, educating the public, and coordinating with national and international bodies to curb drug abuse and trafficking.
This amendment represents an effort to align the country’s narcotics laws with constitutional standards and international best practices while potentially opening avenues for regulated cannabis cultivation and its associated economic benefits.
JKB/MA
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