Namibia

Is Weed Legal in Namibia?

Status

Illegal

Covers

Cannabis / Marijuana

Jurisdiction

Independent Country

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

All countries

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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