UGANDA APPROVES EXPERIMENTAL LICENSE FOR MEDICINAL CANNABIS CULTIVATION AND EXPORT

The Ugandan government has taken a significant step into the global medical cannabis industry by granting Bright Sparks Farm Limited an experimental license to grow, process, and export medicinal cannabis. Issued by the Minister of Internal Affairs, Maj.Gen. (Rtd) Kahinda Otafiire, the permit allows cultivation in Nakasongola (Luwampanga, Kisweramindu) and Luweero(Bulemezi). The approval follows the company’s application dated July 21, 2025. In the official letter addressed to Bright Sparks Farm Limited, Otafiire outlined strict conditions, including compliance with Uganda Police Force regulations on cannabis production and processing.

In February last year, President Yoweri Museveni assented to the Narcotics and Psychotropic Substance (Control) Act 2023, which among others allows licensed farming and use of cannabis strictly for medicinal use in the country. Some of the controlled substances listed under the law include cannabis and khat. The license is non-transferable, and the approved cultivation sites cannot be altered. This decision reflects Uganda’s cautious yet strategic approach to embracing the economic potential of medicinal cannabis, balancing regulation with opportunity.

The country’s favorable climate positions it as competitive player in the high quality medical cannabis market. Security remains a top priority, with the Inspector General of Police copied on the communication to oversee operations. Uganda now follows other African nations like Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and South Africa in legalizing medicinal cannabis under strict regulatory frameworks. The move signals growing interest from investors and marks a progressive shift in Uganda’s drug policy, recognizing the sector’s potential health and economic benefits.