Is Marijuana Legal in Somalia?

Marijuana use, growth, and possession are illegal in Somalia. Not only is recreational marijuana against the law, but medical cannabis is also outlawed.

Although it is not impossible, it appears unlikely that the Somalian government will start the marijuana legalization process anytime soon, even for medicinal purposes.

Medical Marijuana Laws in Somalia

With cannabis being entirely against the law, there are no legally recognized forms of medical marijuana in Somalia.

Cannabis use has been somewhat common throughout the country in recent years, but its legal status remains unchanged.

What to Know About About Medical Cannabis in Somalia

The most critical piece of information for you to know is that cannabis is completely illegal in Somalia.

While the legality of cannabis in the nation is fairly cut and dry, marijuana’s existence in the country, alongside the presence of other drugs, paints a more complicated picture.

For those seeking a more complete and nuanced understanding of cannabis in Somalia, there is much more to know.

Some Other Drugs Are Legal

Although Somalia’s cannabis laws outlaw cannabis for recreational and medical use, there is not a complete and total ban on every substance.

The most commonly used drug in Somalia is khat. While khat is a Schedule 1 drug in the United States, it is legal in Somalia. Khat is a shrub that can be consumed in various ways but is commonly used, like chewing tobacco.

No substance is perfect, and even medical marijuana is not suitable for everyone. Compared to khat use, however, medical cannabis appears remarkably safe.

Long-term khat use is physically damaging, specifically to the liver and heart. As it is a stimulant that induces effects similar to cocaine or methamphetamine, it is not recommended that anyone who feels they would benefit from medical marijuana try khat instead.

In many countries, there is a historical and contemporary mismatch between what is legal and what is healthy.

Just as you need to consider the potentially extreme legal ramifications of using cannabis in any country or state where it is illegal, you should consider the physical side effects of any drug you use, regardless of its legal status.

Cannabis Is Widely Used

With khat being legal for recreational use in Somalia, it is understandable that it is the most commonly used drug in the country.

Despite its illegal status, cannabis is one of the other most frequently used substances in Somalia, with marijuana use nearly double alcohol use.

With cannabis containing so many potential health benefits for medicinal use and its comparatively low addictive properties, a legal medical cannabis industry could be both financially lucrative and a positive force for Somali citizens, as legal cannabis could potentially reduce khat use.

Can You Grow Cannabis In Somalia?

No, you cannot grow cannabis in Somalia. In Somalia, cannabis use is completely illegal, so you cannot grow cannabis for any reason whatsoever.

The Bottom Line

Unfortunately, both medical and recreational cannabis are currently highly illegal in Somalia, and any form of marijuana legalization is likely a long way off.

While recreational use is still present in Somalia, punishments for use can be severe. Although some other drugs, like khat, are legal in the country, the alternatives do not appear to be nearly as safe as responsible marijuana use can be.