Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has called on Ghanaians to distinguish between legally licensed industrial cannabis production and the unlawful cultivation of narcotic substances, stressing that the two should not be confused.

Addressing Parliament's Public Assurance Committee, the Minister said the government has stepped up public education to improve understanding of Ghana's drug laws and eliminate misconceptions surrounding cannabis cultivation.

He rejected claims that some cultivators are unaware of the legal framework governing cannabis production, insisting that extensive awareness campaigns have been carried out across the country.

According to Mr Muntaka, industrial cannabis cultivation is permitted only within the confines of the law and under strict regulatory oversight, while the unauthorised cultivation, possession or production of narcotic substances remains a criminal offence.

He explained that public sensitisation has been a key component of government's strategy to ensure citizens understand the distinction between approved commercial cannabis production and illegal drug activities.

The Minister disclosed that the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) organised more than 2,100 community outreach programmes in 2025, reaching over half a million students with education on drug abuse, narcotics laws and their implications.

Beyond community engagements, he said the Commission has also used radio discussions, media campaigns and other public awareness initiatives to broaden education on the country's drug control regulations.

Mr Muntaka noted that these efforts have been complemented by activities held to commemorate the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, which seek to raise awareness about the dangers associated with illicit drug production, trafficking and abuse.

He emphasised that the legalisation of industrial cannabis under Ghana's regulatory framework should not be misconstrued as blanket approval for cultivating or possessing prohibited narcotic substances.

The Minister reaffirmed government's commitment to ensuring that licensed industrial cannabis production remains strictly regulated while law enforcement agencies continue to intensify action against illegal drug cultivation and trafficking across the country.