Is Weed Legal in Tanzania?

Recreational marijuana is illegal in Tanzania. The Drug Control and Enforcement Act of 2015 (Act No. 5 of 2015) and the Drugs and Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Drugs Act criminalize possession, cultivation, sale, and trafficking of cannabis (locally called bangi).

Possession of any amount can trigger a minimum 30 years imprisonment under the 2015 Act for offenses involving more than 10 grams; smaller quantities still draw 5 to 20 years and substantial fines (TZS 1 million-30 million, about USD 400-12,000). Cultivation in regions such as Arusha, Tanga, and Morogoro is widespread but heavily prosecuted by the Drug Control and Enforcement Authority (DCEA), established in 2017. Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam and the border at Namanga (Kenya) screen with K-9 units. Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar both apply the same federal framework, though Zanzibar's tourism-heavy economy means visitor enforcement is visible.

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