Zimbabwe
Is Weed Legal in Zimbabwe?
Status
Illegal
Covers
Jurisdiction
Last updated
May 29, 2026
The short answer
Recreational marijuana is illegal in Zimbabwe. The Dangerous Drugs Act [Chapter 15:02] and the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act [Chapter 9:23] criminalise cultivation, possession, and supply of cannabis (mbanje or dagga). Possession can attract up to twelve years' imprisonment, and trafficking sentences can reach life imprisonment under aggravated provisions.
Enforcement is led by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Drugs and Narcotics Section. The 2018 reform under Statutory Instrument 62 of 2018 (Dangerous Drugs - Production of Cannabis for Medicinal and Scientific Use) Regulations carved out a licensed medical and scientific pathway but kept recreational use criminalised. The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) administers the licensing regime; the Ministry of Health and Child Care signs off on medicinal authorisations.
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 ·
Zimbabwe
Key facts
Rules at a glance
THC limit
Prohibited for recreational use
Regulator
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP); Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ)
Key regulation
Dangerous Drugs Act [Chapter 15:02]; Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act [Chapter 9:23]; SI 62 of 2018
Effective
April 27, 2018
Adult-use cannabis
Illegal
Medical cannabis
Legal
For brands and importers
Import and export rules
Recreational import and export are prohibited. The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) and ZRP coordinate interdiction at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (HRE), Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport (BUQ), and at Beitbridge, Plumtree, Chirundu, and Forbes border posts. MCAZ-licensed export of medicinal cannabis is permitted to authorised foreign buyers.
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