Due to the high rate of marijuana use already in existence, Barclays Bank predicts that the global market for cannabis will surpass $272 billion in 2028.
Numerous nations have taken notice of this and seized the chance to legalize marijuana in order to strengthen their own economy.
It has become a main source of revenue in some countries that have legalized it such as Lesotho.
Malawi
Malawi is the latest south African country to Legalize the production, distribution, and consumption of Marijuana for medical purposes. Recreational use of the drug is still illegal in the country.
” Legalization of this crop will contribute to economic growth as it will contribute in the diversification of the economy and boost the country’s exports, especially at this time when tobacco exports are dwidling,” said agriculture minister Kondwani.
South Africa
The South African court ruled that the private use of marijuana is not a criminal offence.
” The right to privacy is not confined in a home or private dwelling. It will not be a criminal offence for an adult person to use or be in possession of cannabis in private space,” said Raymond Zondo deputy chief justice.
Zimbabwe
The Zimbabwe government allows its citizens to apply for five year renewable licences, to cultivate cannabis for medical and research purposes. The people can now grow, transport and sell cannabis in and out of the country.
Lesotho
Lesotho was the first African country to Legalize growth of Marijuana in the year 2017. The country has a very bad economy and the government saw this as a chance to balance their accounts.
70% of marijuana consumed in South Africa is grown in Lesotho according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, this makes cannabis one of the country’s major exports.
The locals call it “matekoane.”
Zambia
In December 2019, by unanimous decision, Marijuana was Legalized in Zambia for export and medicinal purposes only. Recreational use of the same remains illegal and punishable by law. Cannabis is known as mbanje or chwang in Zambia.
