Botswana
Is Weed Legal in Botswana?
Status
Illegal
Covers
Jurisdiction
Last updated
May 29, 2026
The short answer
Recreational marijuana is illegal in Botswana. The Drugs and Related Substances Act (Cap 63:04) criminalises cultivation, possession, and supply of cannabis (matekwane). Possession can carry up to ten years' imprisonment and a fine of BWP 50,000; trafficking sentences are stiffer and can include forfeiture.
Enforcement is led by the Botswana Police Service Drug and Narcotics Squad. Botswana has no medical or industrial cannabis programme. Reform discussion has surfaced in parliament — notably around hemp's economic potential — but no enabling legislation has passed. Tourists are not exempt; the Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) routinely produces prosecutions for cannabis possession.
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Verify current law with qualified counsel before making compliance decisions.
Key facts ·
Botswana
Key facts
Rules at a glance
THC limit
Prohibited
Regulator
Botswana Police Service; Ministry of Defence, Justice and Security
Key regulation
Drugs and Related Substances Act (Cap 63:04)
Effective
January 1, 1992
Adult-use cannabis
Illegal
Medical cannabis
Illegal
For brands and importers
Import and export rules
Import and export of cannabis are prohibited. The Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS) and Botswana Police screen at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport, at Maun (MUB), Kasane (BBK), and at land borders with South Africa (Tlokweng, Pioneer Gate, Ramatlabama), Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Zambia.
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