Namibia
Is Weed Legal in Namibia?
Status
Illegal
Covers
Jurisdiction
Last updated
May 29, 2026
The short answer
Recreational marijuana is illegal in Namibia. The Abuse of Dependence-Producing Substances and Rehabilitation Centres Act 41 of 1971 — inherited from the South African pre-independence regime — criminalises cultivation, possession, and supply of cannabis (dagga). Possession can attract fines and imprisonment; trafficking can lead to up to fifteen years.
Enforcement is led by the Namibian Police Force (NamPol) Drug Law Enforcement Division. In 2023 the High Court of Namibia in Acheson v Minister of Justice considered constitutional challenges to private cannabis use, but as of 2026 the legislative position has not changed. The Ministry of Health and Social Services has not authorised a medical cannabis programme. Reform legislation has been mooted in the National Assembly without enactment.
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 ·
Namibia
Key facts
Rules at a glance
THC limit
Prohibited
Regulator
Namibian Police Force (NamPol); Ministry of Justice
Key regulation
Abuse of Dependence-Producing Substances and Rehabilitation Centres Act 41 of 1971
Effective
January 1, 1971
Adult-use cannabis
Illegal
Medical cannabis
Illegal
For brands and importers
Import and export rules
Import and export of cannabis are prohibited. The Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA) and NamPol coordinate interdiction at Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH), Walvis Bay (WVB), and at border posts with South Africa (Ariamsvlei, Noordoewer), Botswana, Zambia, and Angola.
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