The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has firmly denied authorising any individuals or groups to act as intermediaries in the acquisition of cannabis cultivation licences, cautioning the public against engaging with purported agents or consultants.

In a press release issued on Monday, September 1, NACOC reiterated that it has not authorised, accredited, or certified any person, association, or organisation to facilitate, broker, or secure cannabis licences on its behalf.

The Commission warned prospective applicants not to pay money to any party claiming to represent NACOC in such matters.

“All licensing processes will be conducted solely by the Commission, not through third parties,” the statement emphasised.

NACOC further clarified that official fees and charges associated with the cannabis licensing regime will be published only after approval by Parliament.

The public is therefore advised to exercise patience while parliamentary processes related to cannabis licensing are finalised.

The statement also referenced the current legal framework, highlighting Section 43 of the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), as amended by the Narcotics Control Commission (Amendment) Act, 2023 (Act 1100).

Under this legislation, the statement noted that the Minister for the Interior is empowered to grant licences strictly for the cultivation of cannabis with THC levels not exceeding 0.3%, and solely for industrial (fibre or seed) or medicinal purposes. The law does not permit recreational use.

To support a fair and transparent cannabis regulatory regime, NACOC has already implemented policies under the Narcotics Control Commission (Cultivation and Management of Cannabis) Regulations, 2023 (L.I. 2475).

The Commission stated that until the regulatory framework is finalised and licences are formally issued, all other activities involving cannabis including possession, cultivation, sale, use, and trafficking remain illegal except where expressly permitted by law.

NACOC urged the public to rely solely on verified communication channels for official updates.