Abel Ndooka
Word From The Market with Tina Nleya
INDUSTRIAL HEMP and medicinal cannabis are rapidly emerging as transformative crops worldwide.
They offer significant economic, environmental and social benefits, making them a key focus area for forward-thinking nations.
Zimbabwe, through progressive policies and regulatory frameworks, has positioned itself to capitalise on the opportunities presented by these crops.
In a bid to amplify awareness on the crops and encourage farmers to embrace them, the Agricultural Marketing Authority (AMA), in partnership with Kutsaga Research, hosted an industrial hemp field day at Thathokuhle Farm in Douglasdale, Bulawayo, last week.
Through this field day, AMA realised that there is still an information gap regarding industrial hemp and cannabis cultivation, as well as the licences involved.
Understanding industrial hemp
Industrial hemp, a variety of cannabis sativa, is distinguished by its low tetrahydrocannabinol content (0,3 percent or less). As a result, hemp does not produce the psychoactive effects commonly associated with marijuana.
This versatile crop can be used in textile, food, cosmetic, construction and biofuel production.
Zimbabwe legalised industrial hemp in 2019, recognising its potential to drive agricultural diversification and economic growth.
Medicinal cannabis, regulated separately, also presents a high-value opportunity, especially as global demand for cannabis-derived pharmaceuticals grows.
Licensing requirements
AMA oversees industrial hemp production in Zimbabwe under Statutory Instrument 218 of 2020.
Obtaining a licence involves the following steps:
* Farm inspections — These are conducted by the Plant Quarantine Services department to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
* Security clearance — This is issued by the Zimbabwe Republic Police to ensure the legitimacy of applicants.
* Documentation — Applicants must provide certified copies of their identity cards, a valid tax clearance certificate and company incorporation documents such as CR14 and CR6, for corporate entities.
* Payment of application fees — Cultivator permits cost US$200, while merchant and research permits cost US$500.
Once all the requirements are met, AMA processes the application within 72 hours, making it one of the fastest regulatory processes in the region.
Licences are valid for one year while research permits cover three years.
Cultivation requirements
Industrial hemp thrives in Zimbabwe’s climate and soils, making it an ideal crop for local farmers.
However, cultivation requires a minimum of one hectare, except for research purposes.
Farmers must also secure approved seed varieties, which can currently be imported under a Government waiver.
Economic and environmental benefits
Industrial hemp is a game-changer for Zimbabwean agriculture, offering benefits that extend beyond its monetary value. These are:
1) Versatility — Hemp’s applications span industries, including textiles, construction, personal care and food. It is increasingly in demand as a sustainable raw material.
2) Environmental impact — Hemp requires minimal pesticides, grows quickly and replenishes soil health, making it a key crop for sustainable agriculture.
3) Carbon sequestration — Research has shown that one hectare of hemp absorbs 8 tonnes-22 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually. This is more than double the sequestration rate of trees. As such, hemp is a critical tool in combating climate change.
Exploring market opportunities
The global industrial hemp market is booming.
In 2019, it was valued at US$4,71 billion, with expectations that the figure will rise to US$15,26 billion by 2027.
Zimbabwean farmers can capitalise on this demand, especially in export markets like Europe, Israel and North America.
However, accessing these markets requires certifications such as Good Agricultural and Collection Practices (GACP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
Medicinal cannabis: A high-value crop
Medicinal cannabis presents another lucrative opportunity.
Its derivatives are used in pain management, epilepsy treatment and other medical applications.
With global demand rising, Zimbabwe’s progressive framework gives it a competitive edge in this high-margin sub-sector.
Carbon credits: The hidden opportunity
Beyond direct revenue from hemp products, farmers can benefit from the carbon credits market.
Hemp’s superior carbon sequestration capabilities make it an attractive option for climate-conscious investors.
By integrating hemp cultivation into carbon offset programmes, farmers can end up with additional income streams, while contributing to global climate goals.
Zimbabwe’s competitive edge
Zimbabwe has several advantages in the industrial hemp and medicinal cannabis sub-sectors:
a) Fertile soils and good climate — These are ideal for hemp cultivation.
b) Expertise — There is a strong agricultural tradition supported by Government-backed research initiatives.
c) Policy support — Clear regulations and streamlined licensing processes make Zimbabwe a regional leader.
Challenges and the way forward
While the opportunities are immense, challenges remain.
The lack of registered seed varieties in Zimbabwe requires farmers to import seeds, adding costs.
Additionally, local farmers must navigate stringent international standards to access premium markets.
To overcome these barriers, AMA and other stakeholders are working to promote domestic seed trials to develop local varieties, provide training and capacity-building for farmers and facilitate access to certifications required for export.
How to get started
Joining Zimbabwe’s burgeoning hemp and cannabis industry is straightforward:
* Contact AMA — For guidance on licensing and regulatory compliance.
* Secure land and resources — Ensure you meet the minimum hectare requirement and access quality seeds.
* Market research — Identify potential markets and align production with demand.
As Zimbabwe moves towards Vision 2030, industrial hemp and medicinal cannabis offer transformative opportunities for economic growth, environmental sustainability and rural development.
These crops not only provide farmers with a chance to diversify their incomes, but also position Zimbabwe as a leader in the green economy.
Farmers, investors and entrepreneurs are encouraged to seize this opportunity.
For assistance, contact AMA at +263781706212 or email gmashiri@ama.co.zw
By embracing hemp and cannabis, Zimbabwe can cultivate a brighter, greener future.
* Tina Nleya is AMA’s marketing and public relations manager. She can be contacted on email: tnleya@ama.co.zw. Word From The Market is a column produced by AMA to promote market-driven production.
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