Rwanda aims to tap into global cannabis market

Rwanda has approved the cultivation and export of cannabis despite the fact that the use of the narcotic for medical or recreational purposes remains illegal in the country. A Cabinet meeting, chaired by President Paul Kagame, approved regulatory guidelines on cultivation, processing and export of ‘high-value therapeutic crops’. The East African reports that the government hopes to tap into the multi-billion dollar global cannabis market. Health Minister Daniel Ngamije said the move ‘will not give an excuse for drug abusers and dealers … the law against narcotics is available and it will continue to be enforced’. The Rwanda Development Board last year invited companies to bid for the development of medicinal cannabis.