Editorial
Parliament Passes Landmark Narcotics Bill: Cannabis Cultivation for Industrial Use Now Permissible
Parliament house of Ghana
Dear Editor,
Parliament has created a history by enacting a ground-breaking drug law that permits the growth and cultivation of cannabis for commercial use. With supporters emphasising the possible economic benefits and opponents raising concerns about potential ramifications, this action represents a fundamental shift in the nation’s approach to drug policy.
An important turning point has been reached in Ghana’s legislative history with the passage of the bill. The new law allows for the supervised production and processing of cannabis for industrial purposes, including uses in agriculture, textiles, and medicine. The bill’s backers contend that it creates employment prospects, opens up new economic options, and has the potential to position Ghana as a regional leader in cannabis-related companies.
Kwame Ampofo, an entrepreneur with a deep interest in the potential of the cannabis market, is one person who vehemently supports the legislation. “This Parliamentary decision is a progressive step towards releasing the economic potential of cannabis,” he emphasised. It would not only bring in money for the nation but also give our young people job chances.
However, there has also been opposition to the bill’s passage from people and groups worried about the possible dangers of cannabis growing. One such opponent is renowned psychiatrist Dr. Abena Appiah, who worries about the possible effects on public health and safety. Dr. Appiah said, “While I understand the economic benefits that this bill’s proponents highlight, we must also consider the potential consequences, especially in terms of increased drug abuse and related mental health issues”, she said.
It is crucial to remember that the legislation that has been enacted places stringent restrictions and control on the production and processing of cannabis. The prohibition of unauthorised possession, sale, or recreational use is a major focus of the law, which also lays a lot of attention on making sure that cannabis cultivation is only done for industrial uses.
With the passage of this legislation, Ghana joins an increasing number of nations that are rethinking their policies toward cannabis. Ghana wants to tap into new revenue streams, strengthen its economy, and generate job opportunities within a legal and regulated framework by embracing the possibilities of industrial cannabis farming.
The measure, according to its supporters, offers a chance for scientific research and advancement into therapeutic cannabis in addition to the commercial advantages. Supporters argue that more research into cannabis’ therapeutic potential could result in improvements in healthcare and treatment choices for a range of illnesses.
Regulatory entities will be essential in ensuring compliance and that cannabis production is done responsibly and in accordance with the established rules as Ghana moves forward with implementing the new legislation.
The adoption of this anti-drug bill demonstrates Ghana’s dedication to investigating alternate strategies and changing views on drug policy. It symbolises a tremendous advancement in the nation’s pursuit of economic development and expansion while also igniting crucial discussions about public health and safety.
The recent passage of the narcotic bill by the Ghanaian Parliament is a watershed moment for the nation. Ghana’s move to legalise cannabis planting and growing for industrial use shows that the country is open to taking advantage of new business prospects. While advocates highlight the potential advantages, issues with public health and safety must also be taken into consideration. To maximise the advantages of this historic legislation as Ghana moves forward, a balance between economic growth and responsible regulation will be essential.
Beatrice Kumah
Ghana Institute of Journalism
Editorial
Kudos to Ho Teaching Hospital staff, but …
Dear Editor,
If there is any group of professionals that get bad-mouthed the most, then you are referring to nurses and medical doctors assigned to public hospitals across the country.
For this particular letter, I want to sing the praises of this same group of professionals that work at the Ho Teaching Hospital, famously known as Trafalgar.
Despite the work load and the mass casualties received at the emergency ward of the hospital, the welcoming nature of the nurses and the professional touch by the doctors can’t be ignored. My personal experience has got me travelling from my base in Accra to seek medical services from these professionals.
Special mention has to be made of the likes of Precious of the Pharmacy Department, Dr Brandon Banor (a maxillofacial resident) of the Dental unit, male nurse Justice assigned to the female surgical ward. Words cannot really do justice to their affable, professional caring nature. A simple thank you is all that I can say.
In the same vein, I can’t but call out the bad attitude of the auxiliary staff and contractors of the hospital.
Chief among them is some of the contracted bank staff that handle the payment section of the hospital and the patient registration section (those that check the status of the patient as to whether they are fee paying patients or NHIS sponsored).
The attitude at times leaves a bad taste in the mouth. One such occurrence was a night staff of the registration section who had her legs on the office table whilst talking to patients.
The CEO of the hospital needs to shine his torch light on this support sections before they erode the awesome performance of the direct medical staff of the hospital.
Thank you for the space.
Kwesi Manu
Accra
Editorial
Develop policies to address disability concerns
Dear Editor,
AT the beginning of the year, when I went to the bank to deposit money into my uncle’s account, I observed a very sad situation where a man in a wheelchair struggled to navigate his way around the facility.
This is because the structure is disability unfriendly.
As I stood and watched how the man struggled to move his wheelchair, I felt sad and wondered if this is how the life of a disabled person should be. It becomes worse if there is no one to offer help.
In Ghana, People With Disabilities (PWDs) are often treated differently and are often subjected to all forms of discrimination.
Most of these people find themselves in such a situation as a result of unfortunate happenings such as accidents and injuries.
It is, therefore, not appropriate for anyone to discriminate against them. Discrimination against such persons take many forms, including how buildings are constructed.
Most of the public structures are not disability friendly and impede their movement.
As a country, we should consider the PWDs in designing our structures. I also think that there should be a national policy that seeks to address this issue.
I have a strong conviction that when such a policy is developed by the government, people with disabilities would feel appreciated and also promote social inclusivity.
Ray,
Kasoa
