Over 7.5% of adults in West Africa used cannabis in 2023, according to the United Nations. Cannabis, also known as ‘weed’ or ‘marijuana,’ is a widely debated topic. Some countries allow it for medical or recreational use, while others ban it entirely. But what about Mali? Is cannabis legal in Mali? Let’s find out.
Is Cannabis Legal in Mali? Legal Status in 2025
No, cannabis is not legal in Mali. In Mali, both recreational and medical cannabis use is illegal. The country has strict penalties for possession, use, cultivation, and trafficking. There is no legal framework for the medical or industrial use of cannabis in Mali.
1. Recreational Use
Recreational cannabis use is fully banned in Mali. This means growing, selling, buying, or using cannabis for fun is against the law. A 2024 report from the World Health Organization (WHO) showed that just 1% of Malian adults say they use cannabis. This is likely because they fear punishment.
2. Medicinal Use
Mali does not allow cannabis for medical purposes. Mali’s government has not approved cannabis as medicine, unlike Canada or Germany. In those countries, doctors can prescribe it for pain or epilepsy. In 2023, the African Union urged member states to explore cannabis for health benefits. Mali has yet to act on this suggestion.
3. Industrial Use
Industrial hemp (a type of cannabis with low THC, the chemical that makes you high) is also illegal. Hemp can be used to make rope, paper, and clothing. But, in Mali, the laws don’t separate hemp from other types of cannabis. For comparison, over 30 countries, including France and China, allow hemp farming.
Cannabis Law and Control in Mali
1. How Mali Applies Cannabis Laws
Mali’s police and courts take cannabis laws seriously. The National Directorate of Pharmacy and Medicine (DNPM) teams up with law enforcement to fight the illegal cannabis trade. In 2024, Mali’s government seized over 2.3 tons of cannabis, according to the Mali Narcotics Bureau. Most busts happen near borders with Guinea and Ireland, where smuggling is common.
2. The Illegal Cannabis Market
Despite strict laws, the illegal cannabis market thrives. A 2025 study by the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) showed that 1 in 10 young adults in Bamako, Mali’s capital, has tried cannabis. Dealers often sell it in small bags for as little as 500 CFA francs ($0.80). However, buying or selling even small amounts can lead to arrest.
Cannabis Usage and Its Impact in Mali
1. Recreational Drug Use
Recreational cannabis use is rare but exists, especially in cities. The WHO links Mali’s low usage rates to strong cultural and religious beliefs against drugs. For example, 95% of Malians identify as Muslim and Islamic teachings discourage intoxicants.
2. Mental Health Concerns
Cannabis can harm mental health, especially for teens. The Mali Mental Health Association warns that cannabis use may increase anxiety or depression. In 2024, just 12% of Mali’s mental health clinics could treat cannabis-related issues. This shows a clear gap in care.
3. Industrial Cannabis Use
Mali misses a chance to tap into a $5 billion global market because industrial hemp is banned Neighbors like Morocco make millions from legal hemp exports. However, Mali’s laws prevent farmers from participating in this industry.
Cannabis Cultivation in Mali
Growing cannabis is illegal in Mali. Most illegal farms are hidden in rural areas like Sikasso and Kayes. Police destroyed over 15,000 cannabis plants in 2024, per Mali’s Annual Crime Report. Farmers risk jail, but poverty drives some to grow it secretly for quick cash.
Cannabis Penalties in Mali
| Offense | Penalty |
| Having even a small amount of cannabis (like a joint) can lead to 1–5 years in jail and fines of up to 5 million CFA francs ($8,000). | |
| Trafficking | Traffickers face 10–20 years in prison and fines of up to 50 million CFA francs ($80,000). |
| Growing | Growing cannabis plants can result in 5–10 years in jail. |
Future of Cannabis Legalization in Mali
Will Mali ever legalize cannabis? For now, the government shows no signs of change. The pressure is growing. In 2025, ECOWAS suggested talks on cannabis laws in the region. If Senegal or Ghana legalizes it, Mali might rethink its stance. This could happen for medical or industrial use.
Public opinion is mixed. A 2025 Afribarometer survey showed that 63% of Malians are against legalization. In contrast, 22% support medical cannabis. For now, though, Mali’s strict laws remain firm.
