Is Weed Legal in Ethiopia?

Recreational marijuana is illegal in Ethiopia. The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia classifies cannabis as a controlled substance under Proclamation No. 661/2009 on Food, Medicine and Health Care Administration, and the Criminal Code of 2004 criminalizes production, sale, and possession.

Cultivation, trafficking, or sale can trigger penalties of up to 15 years imprisonment under Article 525 of the Criminal Code, particularly when commercial intent is shown. Possession for personal use still risks prosecution, with sentences typically ranging from 6 months to 5 years depending on quantity and prior record. The Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority (EFDA) is the regulator; enforcement is led by the Federal Police and customs at Bole International Airport, where checks are routine. Khat (chat) is legal and culturally significant — do not confuse the two.

This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Verify current law with qualified counsel before making compliance decisions.