Is Hemp Legal in Botswana?
May 29, 2026
Hemp is illegal in Botswana. No licensing framework exists. The Drugs and Related Substances Act treats all Cannabis sativa as a controlled substance.
Hemp is illegal in Botswana. No licensing framework exists. The Drugs and Related Substances Act treats all Cannabis sativa as a controlled substance.
Industrial hemp is not authorised in Botswana. The Ministry of Agriculture has no licensing framework for Cannabis sativa L., and the Drugs and Related Substances Act captures all cannabis biomass regardless of THC content.
Hemp's economic potential has been raised in National Assembly debates, particularly given regional momentum in Lesotho, Eswatini, Zimbabwe, and Zambia. As of 2026 no enabling regulations exist. Pilot proposals would require amendments to Cap 63:04 and ministerial implementing regulations from the Ministry of Agriculture and BoMRA.
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Verify current law with qualified counsel before making compliance decisions.
Illegal
Ministry of Agriculture; BoMRA
Prohibited
Drugs and Related Substances Act (Cap 63:04)
Hemp import and export are prohibited. BURS applies controlled-substance rules to all Cannabis sativa material. No commercial hemp trade is permitted.
