Is Marijuana Legal in Equatorial Guinea?

Africa has some of the highest levels of cannabis production worldwide. Still, most African nations do not allow the cultivation, sale, possession, or use of cannabis. Equatorial Guinea is no exception. Marijuana is illegal in this west-central African nation, including medical marijuana. Despite these laws, smoking marijuana remains culturally popular and easily accessible to Equatorial Guinea citizens.

Medical Marijuana Laws in Equatorial Guinea

The production, sale, and possession of medicinal marijuana products are illegal in Equatorial Guinea. Medical CBD is also illegal in most African countries, despite having low THC levels, or even 0 THC.

However, although the law says severe penalties exist for producing, selling, and possessing medical cannabis or marijuana for recreational purposes, cannabis use is well-tolerated in the country. According to reports, many citizens openly smoke weed without repercussions from law enforcement, with no arrests for smoking or dealing cannabis in living memory.

What to Know About About Medical Cannabis in Equatorial Guinea

Cannabis is officially illegal in Equatorial Guinea, but its restricted status doesn’t prevent people from regularly and openly using it for personal, sacred, or medical use. Historically, cannabis has held a significant role in Equatorial Guinea’s cultural ceremonies.

Referred to as the “sacred weed of the people,” it has long been the predominant drug in the country. Government ministers, civil servants, and “street children” alike say marijuana makes them happy and invigorates them, providing courage, imagination, and inspiration.

Buying Cannabis in Equatorial Guinea

Equatorial Guinea’s government and society effectively tolerate the production, sale, and consumption of cannabis. As a result, criminal organizations have limited involvement in the country, and people can easily buy cannabis from local dealers.

People looking to find marijuana for medical purposes or recreational use can find the illicit plant on almost every street, making it inexpensive. A “poor man’s joint” costs as little as 100 CFA francs (about 20 cents). Reportedly, wealthier customers and tourists, such as those from the U.S., buy larger quantities in bulk at a discount.

Cannabis Penalties in Equatorial Guinea

Technically, the penalties for the possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs in Equatorial Guinea are severe, including long jail sentences and heavy fines. However, there are no records of a cannabis-related conviction in Equatorial Guinea.

People smoke publicly, and the police don’t take action. According to a report on cannabis tolerance in African countries, on a scale of 1-10 (where 1 is highly prohibited and 10 is legal), Equatorial Guinea has a smoking tolerance level of 8.

Cannabis History in West Africa

Cannabis has strong ties to African traditions and culture, especially for medicinal purposes, despite its illicit status. According to a report on the impact of recreational and medical cannabis in Africa:

• Cannabis was legal until the late 1800s when colonial governments reduced production to increase other crops and strengthen their mission of “civilizing” natives.
• In the early 20th century, medicinal use began to fall out of favor as Western medicine focused on isolated chemicals.

• In 1925, the Geneva Convention on Opium and Other Drugs outlawed cannabis in many colonies.
• In 1961, Schedule I and IV of the United Nations Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs restricted cannabis to medical and scientific use.

Can You Grow Cannabis in Equatorial Guinea?

Officially, it is illegal to grow or cultivate cannabis in Equatorial Guinea. However, cannabis cultivation is prevalent in the country. Locals grow marijuana nationwide, often between cassava plants or banana trees.

The Bottom Line

Marijuana is illegal in Equatorial Guinea, including for medical purposes. Despite the strict laws, cannabis is popular and widely tolerated, holding historical and cultural significance in Equatorial Guinea’s society.

While the official penalties for cannabis-related offenses are severe, there are no records of convictions. People openly smoke marijuana without facing the consequences and can easily access an inexpensive supply for personal or medicinal use.