Botswana’s journey toward a more progressive and diversified economy took a significant step forward this April with the official launch of the Cannabis Association of Botswana (CAB) at The Pond CBD. The newly-formed non-profit association, registered with the Registrar of Societies, promises to reshape the nation’s approach to cannabis use, policy, and industry development. The registration of the organization harmonises with pronouncements by His Excellency, President Advocate Duma Gideon Boko, during his campaign, and extends the civilian voice in contributing to decision-making concerning the natural herb that has long faced battles of representation and reputation.
CAB’s launch event, themed around community, advocacy, and economic opportunity, marked a major milestone for Botswana’s emerging cannabis space. Bringing together entrepreneurs, advocates, artists, and curious citizens eager to engage in discussions and experiences centred on cannabis as a driver of sustainable growth and cultural preservation, this multisectoral approach aligns with what has been presented as a new national outlook. At its core, the organisation champions the responsible development of Botswana’s cannabis industry, advocating for progressive legal, social, and economic policies. The association emphasizes that cannabis should not just be viewed through a criminal lens, but as a plant with immense potential for medical, industrial, cultural, and religious applications. CAB’s mission is unequivocal: “To end the criminalization of cannabis possession and establish pathways for Batswana to thrive as leaders and key beneficiaries in the cannabis value chain.”
Speaking to the inclusive approach that inspired their establishment, Peo Seed, President of CAB, emphasized: “Instead of only focusing on creating jobs, Batswana must develop and advance in the cannabis industry as entrepreneurs and business owners – from small scale to large scale”, adding that “beyond business and entrepreneurship, CAB is set to influence the shaping of national policies related to cannabis”. They expect to do so through collaboration with local and international stakeholders, allowing CAB to serve as a hub for education and research, ensuring that policymaking is rooted in evidence, inclusivity, and social equity.
CAB’s establishment comes at a critical time for Botswana as the country seeks to diversify its economy beyond mining. Cannabis represents a promising new frontier. Industrial applications of cannabis – such as using hemp for textiles, construction materials, and biofuel – offer sustainable alternatives that align with Botswana’s broader economic and environmental goals.Across the African continent, governments have been exploring the positive impact that the plant can have on their national balance sheet. According to data published by Statista in March 2024, the continent’s revenue from cannabis market was forecasted to reach USD 770.43 million in 2025 – with the medical cannabis market forecast to reach USD 466.84 million. By advocating for evidence-based regulation and responsible commercialization, CAB aims to ensure that Batswana are positioned not merely as consumers but as producers, innovators, and industry leaders – furthermore enabling international investment and in-country development.
Much like the registration battles faced by groups like LEGABIBO advocating for the human rights of sexual and gender minorities, CAB has earned its registration prior to the decriminalisation of their core concern, showing a willingness to offer civic society the diversity needed by progressive countries. The organisation’s proactive engagement strategy will likely exert considerable influence on the development of cannabis-related policies in Botswana by inviting open dialogue between citizens, government representatives, and private sector stakeholders – helping delineate between legal practice and criminal pursuits. By bringing pertinent, yet often contentious, subject matter to the public sphere, CAB is helping to shape a regulatory environment that balances opportunity with responsibility. President Advocate Boko, when speakingon the country’s exploration of the multitudinous opportunities of working with cannabis at the Eastern and Southern Africa Commission on Drugs (ESACD) conference in Gaborone earlier in April, posed that “drug policy reforms must be harmonised and be consistent with quality standards. They must address any legal ambiguities and create robust regulatory frameworks”; further stating that his administration is not oblivious to the negative impacts of misuse and is prepared to develop mitigation strategies simultaneously.
The cornerstone of CAB’s approach is their emphasis on inclusivity and education. Rather than allowing misinformation and stigma to dominate public discourse, CAB’s initiatives are designed to foster informed decision-making at all levels. The association’s collaboration with legal and health experts underscores its commitment to ensuring that future legislation reflects best practices, safeguards public health, and promotes economic empowerment. Furthermore, with Botswana’s gravitas, CAB’s activities may contribute to regional dialogues around cannabis regulation. With South Africa and Lesotho having already paved way andneighbouring countries exploring cannabis legalisation for medical, industrial, and even recreational purposes, Botswana’s deliberate and structured approach could serve as a model for balancing innovation with cultural and social considerations.
In pursuit of these goals, CAB announced the launch of its public education engagement series under the theme, Know Thy Plant. By hosting these dialogues, CAB seeks to demystify cannabis, dismantle stigma, and build citizen participation in the policymaking process. As Peo Seed noted, “public education, citizen involvement, and engagement in policy development are vital to ensure an inclusive and informed cannabis ecosystem”. The new organisation invites individuals, organisations, and members of the Batswana diaspora to join their movement for a more open, equitable, and prosperous cannabis network. Whether through advocacy, entrepreneurship, education, or cultural engagement, CAB’s vision offers opportunities for all who believe in the power of the plant and the potential of Botswana’s people.
As the first cannabis-focused association in the country, CAB’s launch marks more than an event, but the beginning of a transformative journey toward economic diversification, social justice, and citizen empowerment.For all that the country is looking forward to as it approaches six decades of self-governance, it is undeniable that the polarised conversation around cannabis will persist; however, with the existence of the Cannabis Association of Botswana as a recognised body, perhaps there will be more nuance and consideration applied.
