Is Weed Legal in Zambia?
August 10, 2026
Marijuana is illegal in Zambia under Act No. 35 of 2021. Trafficking carries up to 25 years in prison; the 2021 Cannabis Act allows licensed medicinal exports.
Marijuana is illegal in Zambia under Act No. 35 of 2021. Trafficking carries up to 25 years in prison; the 2021 Cannabis Act allows licensed medicinal exports.
Last reviewed: August 6, 2026
Recreational marijuana is illegal in Zambia. The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act No. 35 of 2021, which repealed the former Chapter 96 framework, criminalises cultivation, possession, supply, and use of cannabis (chamba or insangu). Penalties scale by quantity and intent; trafficking can attract up to twenty-five years' imprisonment and forfeiture under the Forfeiture of Proceeds of Crime Act.
Enforcement is led by the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) of Zambia and the Zambia Police Service. The Cannabis Act No. 33 of 2021 provides for licensed cultivation, manufacture, and export of cannabis for medicinal, scientific, or research purposes under the Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority, and the Industrial Hemp Act No. 34 of 2021 covers industrial hemp below 0.3% THC — but neither legalises recreational possession, and the Cannabis Act's commencement awaits a ministerial statutory instrument. The DEC continues to prosecute personal-use cases. Tourists are not exempt; possession at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) triggers arrest.
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Verify current law with qualified counsel before making compliance decisions.
Illegal
Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC); Zambia Police Service; Ministry of Home Affairs
Prohibited for recreational use
Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act No. 35 of 2021
Recreational import and export are prohibited. The Zambia Revenue Authority and DEC screen at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula (LVI), Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe (NLA), and at land borders with eight neighbours. Licensed medicinal exports under the Cannabis Act No. 33 of 2021 require Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority licensing and a verified foreign buyer.
