A Look At the Potential Future of

Cannabis in South Africa

South Africa has never been closer to full legalization, and while we don't know exactly what
is coming, there is a general framework of outcomes that everyone is expecting. South Africa
and the rest of the world is excited to see what is coming for if our activists are right - this
country will soon have one of the most progressive sets of cannabis regulations in the world. 

What is 'Fields for Green for All'?

Formed by the famous 'Dagga Couple,' ‘Fields of Green for All’ is a non-profit organization
that is at the forefront of South Africa's cannabis legalization. They supply information and
legal consultation for anyone facing cannabis-related legal trouble. The FGA has done
amazing work over the years, managing to bring no less than thirty-six High Court orders into
effect. They estimate that there are approximately 900,000 cannabis farms in South Africa,
supporting an estimated 3,000,0000 cannabis users.

Eight Years’ Worth Of Research On the Brink Of Actualization

The FGA has put together a proposed legal framework for SA entitled "Proposal for the
Legal Regulation of Cannabis in South Africa." While available for anyone to read, here's a
look at the main highlights affecting the potential future of cannabis in our country:

 Age restriction limiting use to those who are 18-years or older unless medicinal
cannabis is required for a medical condition.
 Regulatory frameworks that make sure that there is no licensing system that grants
power to an individual, organization or governing body to grant or revoke licenses
 Regulation that doesn't exceed the harshness of alcohol & tobacco regulation
 Regulations that prevent the arrest or incarceration of cannabis for any type of use,
cultivation or trade
 Legalities that prevent the testing of cannabis at work unless the employee is already
not fulfilling the duties stipulated in their contract of employment.
 Cannabis will not be able to be used as reasoning for any party during family disputes
or battles for custody - it can only be cited in the same degree as alcohol already is
 The formation of SA cannabis regulations needs to be shifted to a priority status, so
that black market traders join the formal industry immediately.
 Criminal records related to cannabis are most likely to be expunged with any
prisoners held on a cannabis charge being released with no repercussions or release
conditions.

Personal Use

The FGA has also drawn attention to the fact that before a regulatory framework for retail
and distribution is established, personal use is still a very vague area. The packaging seems to
make all the difference. If your stash looks like it can be explained off for personal use,
you're probably fine, but if you've got thirty-one-gram bags ready-to-go it's pretty obvious
that you'll be prosecuted. Recreational users are awaiting regulations just as eagerly as
everyone else. There is also a growing demand for fixed requirements involving renewable
energy sources only in order to minimize environmental harm, and all businesses will need to
be VAT registered. 

FGA – Bringing the Community Together

Whatever the future holds, we’re glad that the community constantly comes together thanks
to leaders like Fields of Green for All. There are few other contributors that have had
anywhere near the effect that they have. We here at WeedUP are eagerly awaiting the
formation of ruling legislature, and with authorities like FGA heading up awareness,
organization and activism, we can only thank each and every person involved for their hard
work.