SA’s cannabis sector celebrates Ramaphosa signing new law

by Staff Bona

As one of his final acts as president before the elections, Cyril Ramaphosa signed the Cannabis for Private Purposes Act  (CfPPA) into law, a welcome sight for South Africa’s growing community.

The new act was signed into law on 28 May, a day before the general elections, and presidency spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya, said the CfPPA will regulate the cultivation, possession and use of cannabis by adults in a private setting, according to SA Gov News.

“This will further enable amendment of the Schedules to the Medicines and Related Substances Act and provide for targeted regulatory reform of the Plant Breeders Rights Act and the Plant Improvement Act, as well as other pieces of legislation that require amendment to allow for the industrialisation of the cannabis sector,” Magwenya said.

In addition, the bill will also guide medically prescribed administration of cannabis to a child, while also protecting them from exposure. It will provide an alternative manner to address the issue of prohibited use, possession of, and dealing of the substance by children. The act will also remove cannabis from the the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act.

According to self-regulatory organisation, Grow One Africa (GOA), the passing of the new law was a positive step for the industry, The Citizen reported.

“We celebrate the passing of the CfPPA yet acknowledge that we still have a way to go before cannabis commerce is fully legal.” it said.

Shan The Canna Man HiGrow chair, who is also known as Shannon Dalton, said the signing of the new act marks a small, but significant, victory for the cannabis community after nearly six years of advocacy.

“While there is still uncertainty ahead, this news brings a sense of confidence that we’re moving in the right direction. As the HiGrow community, we welcome any efforts to improve regulations, standards and growth in the cannabis industry in South Africa,” he said.

Compiled by Matthew Petersen

First published by African Insider

Also see: The health benefits and risks of marijuana