Cannabis Industry in Zimbabwe has Encountered Challenges

The cannabis industry in Zimbabwe has encountered numerous challenges, causing a decline in the optimism initially associated with its potential for economic growth. Stakeholders attribute these difficulties to poor communication and the absence of clear production policies. Regulatory issues, international competition, and economic challenges have further dampened enthusiasm for the industry, despite the country’s favourable climate and available resources.

At a Cannabis Policy Workshop and Indaba hosted by Kutsaga and the University of Bristol’s Cannabis Africana project, Professor Jephias Matunhu, the Executive Director of Midlands State University Tugwi Mukosi Multidisciplinary Research Institute, highlighted the industry’s communication problems, particularly regarding industrial hemp, medicinal purposes, and recreational use. Prof Matunhu emphasized the need to educate farmers about the distinctions between industrial and medicinal hemp. He also stressed the importance of including small-scale growers and fostering an economy that benefits the majority.

Information-sharing platforms and clear expectations for farmers are crucial before the renewal of production licenses, according to Prof Matunhu. The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe confirmed that out of the 59 licenses issued to cannabis growers, only 10 are actively producing, posing a significant challenge to industry growth.

Munyaradzi Chedondo, an agronomist and farmer at African Medical Cannabis Biotech, agreed that farmers face misinformation regarding the differences between industrial hemp production and medicinal purposes. Insufficient infrastructure and a lack of expertise also plague the cannabis industry in Zimbabwe. Specialized facilities for cultivation, processing, and research are scarce, and there is a shortage of skilled professionals knowledgeable in cannabis cultivation, extraction, and product development.

In response to these challenges, the Agriculture and Marketing Authority has pledged to provide more information on the subject. Gerald Mashiri, the Marketing and Economic Researcher at AMA, acknowledged that even licensed growers are struggling to find profitable markets.