South Sudan
Is Weed Legal in South Sudan?
Status
Illegal
Covers
Jurisdiction
Last updated
May 29, 2026
The short answer
Recreational marijuana is illegal in South Sudan. Following independence in 2011, South Sudan retained the Sudanese Penal Code 1991 as transitional law and subsequently enacted the South Sudan Penal Code Act 2008 (carried forward) and the Drugs and Food Control Authority Act 2012. The South Sudan National Police Service and the National Drug and Food Control Authority enforce drug control.
Possession, cultivation, and trafficking of cannabis are criminal offenses with imprisonment penalties under the Penal Code and the Public Health Act framework. South Sudan ratified the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs and the 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances by succession. Civil conflict since 2013, the 2018 revitalised peace agreement, and continuing intercommunal violence have severely limited the central government's enforcement capacity outside Juba; verified compliance guidance from qualified South Sudanese counsel is essential.
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 ·
South Sudan
Key facts
Rules at a glance
THC limit
Prohibited
Regulator
South Sudan National Police Service; National Drug and Food Control Authority
Key regulation
South Sudan Penal Code Act 2008; Drugs and Food Control Authority Act 2012
Effective
January 1, 2012
Adult-use cannabis
Illegal
Medical cannabis
Illegal
For brands and importers
Import and export rules
Cannabis import and export are prohibited under the Penal Code and South Sudan Revenue Authority customs rules. Juba International Airport and the Nimule border crossing to Uganda are primary inspection points. Cross-border traffic with Sudan, Uganda, Kenya, Ethiopia, the DRC, and the Central African Republic is poorly policed in conflict-affected areas.
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