Zambia
Is Weed Legal in Zambia?
Status
Illegal
Covers
Jurisdiction
Last updated
August 6, 2026
The short answer
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 The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act No. 35 of 2021, which repealed the former Chapter 96 framework, criminalises cultivation, possession, supply, and use of cannabis (chamba or insangu).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.
Key facts ·
Zambia
Key facts
Rules at a glance
THC limit
Prohibited for recreational use
Regulator
Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC); Zambia Police Service; Ministry of Home Affairs
Key regulation
Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act No. 35 of 2021
Effective
May 20, 2021
Adult-use cannabis
Illegal
Medical cannabis
Limited
For brands and importers
Import and export rules
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.
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