Gambia
Is Weed Legal in Gambia?
Status
Illegal
Covers
Jurisdiction
Last updated
May 29, 2026
The short answer
Recreational marijuana is illegal in The Gambia. The Drug Control Act 2014 (Act No. 11 of 2014), which replaced the Drug Control Act 2003, classifies cannabis as a prohibited drug under the First Schedule. Cultivation, possession, sale, and use are criminal offences. Possession of less than 250 grams is punishable by a minimum ten-year sentence under section 36, and trafficking attracts life imprisonment and fines of up to one million dalasis.
The Drug Law Enforcement Agency Gambia (DLEAG) is the lead enforcement body, operating alongside The Gambia Police Force. Cannabis (locally called jamba) is grown in the Central River and Lower River regions, but seizures and arrests at Banjul International Airport (BJL), Senegambia, and the Senegal border crossings remain frequent. Tourists detained with cannabis face the same penalties as nationals.
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 ·
Gambia
Key facts
Rules at a glance
THC limit
Prohibited for recreational use
Regulator
Drug Law Enforcement Agency Gambia (DLEAG); Ministry of Interior
Key regulation
Drug Control Act 2014 (Act No. 11 of 2014)
Effective
August 4, 2014
Adult-use cannabis
Illegal
Medical cannabis
Illegal
For brands and importers
Import and export rules
Import and export of recreational cannabis are prohibited. The Gambia Revenue Authority Customs and Excise Department interdicts shipments at Banjul International Airport, the Port of Banjul, and the Senegal land borders at Karang, Amdalai, and Farafenni. Penalties under the Drug Control Act 2014 include life imprisonment for trafficking.
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