Did you know that around 3.5% of people in Namibia use cannabis, according to a 2017 United Nations report? Despite this, the country has some of the strictest cannabis laws in Africa. People have debated for years whether cannabis should be legal for medical, industrial, or recreational use. But what’s the truth? Is cannabis legal in Namibia today? Let’s break it down in simple terms.
Is Cannabis Legal in Namibia? Legal Status in 2025
No, cannabis is not legal in Namibia for recreational use. However, the country allows limited medicinal and industrial use under strict regulations. Namibia’s laws make cannabis illegal. This is stated in the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act of 1992. Getting caught with even small amounts can lead to fines or jail time.
In 2020, Namibia began to look into the economic benefits of industrial hemp. This type of cannabis has low THC levels. Farmers can grow hemp for products like textiles or oils, but they need special licenses. Medicinal cannabis is limited. Only approved doctors can prescribe it for specific health issues.
1. Recreational Use
Recreational cannabis is completely illegal. Smoking, selling, or sharing cannabis for fun can lead to arrest. A 2022 study revealed that 70% of cannabis in Namibia is sold illegally. This shows how common the underground market is.
2. Medicinal Use
The authorities allow medicinal cannabis but tightly control it. Patients with chronic pain or epilepsy can get cannabis-based medicines, like CBD oil, if their doctor gives the go-ahead. However, these products are rare, and most pharmacies don’t stock them.
3. Industrial Use
Namibia legalized hemp farming in 2020 to boost jobs and exports. Hemp is used to make eco-friendly products like paper, clothing, and building materials. The government has issued 15 industrial hemp licenses, as reported in 2023.
Cannabis Law and Control in Namibia
1. How Namibia Applies Cannabis Laws
Police regularly arrest people for possessing or selling cannabis. Even carrying a small joint can lead to a fine of NAD 2,000 (about $135) or 6 months in jail. Repeat offenders face harsher penalties.
2. The Illegal Cannabis Market
Despite the risks, the illegal cannabis market thrives. Experts estimate it’s worth over NAD 300 million ($20 million) yearly. Most illegal cannabis comes from neighboring countries like Angola and Zambia.
Cannabis Usage and Its Impact in Namibia
1. Recreational Drug Use
About 1 in 30 Namibians use marijuana regularly. Young adults (18–25 years) are the biggest users. While some see it as harmless, health experts warn about addiction risks.
2. Mental Health Concerns
The World Health Organization (WHO) connects heavy cannabis use to anxiety, depression, and psychosis. In Namibia, 12% of mental health hospital visits in 2021 involved weed-related issues.
3. Industrial Cannabis Use
Hemp farming could create over 5,000 jobs by 2030, says Namibia’s Agriculture Ministry. Hemp products are eco-friendly and could earn the country millions in exports.
Cannabis Cultivation in Namibia
Growing cannabis is illegal without a license. Farmers with hemp licenses must grow plants with less than 0.3% THC (the chemical that makes you “high”). Illegal growers face up to 20 years in prison.
Cannabis Penalties in Namibia
| Offense | Penalty |
| Personal Use | Up to NAD 2,000 fine or 6 months in jail. |
| Trafficking | Selling or transporting cannabis can lead to 5–20 years in prison. |
| Growing | Growing even one plant without a license can mean 15–20 years in jail. |
Future of Cannabis Legalization in Namibia
any Namibians want weed laws to change. A 2023 survey found that 42% of adults support medical marijuana legalization. In contrast, 28% support recreational use. The government is looking at countries like South Africa. There, personal use is decriminalized. They hope to find guidance.
Namibia could relax its hemp laws by 2030. This change is due to hemp’s economic potential and global moves toward legalization. But, strict rules would likely remain to control misuse.
Today, cannabis is mostly illegal in Namibia, but changes are on the horizon. Hemp farming and medical research could change the country’s laws. Recreational use is still banned, though.
