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THE CANNABIS DEBATE

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Sir,

Reading recent news articles regarding the potential licensing of cannabis leads me to believe that the debate is currently too narrow, and to a large extent, ignores the unique situation existing in the country.

Whilst it is important to be aware of international legislation on the subject, the facts are that Eswatini has an almost unique situation in terms of the extent of the existing informal market, which substantially contributes, particularly in more rural areas, and in some instances forms the bulk of income for many households.


On this basis, one would have thought that the starting point on moving forward, would be a masterplan to incorporate this important sector, rather than ignore it, the effect of the latter having the potential to impact on many people’s lives.


 Myths abound, so let’s put some things into perspective, to hopefully begin a useful debate. The illegal market is diminishing, and with recent changes in South Africa allowing for home cultivation, by 2020 local farmers are going to feel a significant decline in demand.


In order to enter the export market for a consumer product, is no different to any other licensed agricultural exporter, whose facility must be GAP-approved and licensed, and who above all has good business management skills, and financial backing in order to cultivate, dry, store,  process and package all to an international standard.


Complex plant


 It is a very complex plant and requires specific knowledge and handling to derive the full benefits. It is clearly difficult for any small farmer to comply with. Methods of farming urgently need to be reviewed in any event, as we estimate that water use can be reduced by up to 70 per cent with correct farming methods.


To produce any pharmaceutical grade cannabis takes requirements up significantly, under highly controlled conditions, with infrastructure costs being extremely high.
The world is not waiting for us with baited breath, legal cannabis is grown worldwide, and in some US States there is a glut of product.
The international market is exploding, with thousands of products being developed and marketed, incorporating cannabis. Obviously as with any new trend, this will settle down and many products will disappear, however the market will remain strong for those who have unique and exclusive products to offer.


Jobs


This is relative as to how Eswatini can grow industries and create local sustainable jobs. This is a global and expanding industry, which allows for opportunities for all those brave enough to participate. The question here being, how does Eswatini participate?


The importance of tabling a cohesive plan to create and capitalise on this industry into the long-term and embracing rather than marginalising existing structures, cannot be understated, whilst at the same time having a significant impact on revenue collection.


The industry is clouded with myths and get-rich-quick-schemes, but if decisions could be taken with an overall and inclusive view, and with a long-term perspective, these we hope would then be applicable to local conditions and aid in the development of an industry.
As previously stated, my focus would be on a resolution to existing circumstances, moving forward from that point.


It is impossible to please everyone in any solution, but I would at least like to table a suggestion as to how moving forward in harmony could be achieved, remembering that our primary focus is to incorporate small scale farmers, and the many people who depend on them both directly and indirectly, into a legal framework, with associated responsibilities.


Importantly, at this stage, I would not allow licenses to be issued to any foreign owned companies for cultivation, which could be reviewed once local solutions had been implemented.


Legalisation


The company I represent, Umjono Pty Ltd, has for many years been lobbying for legalisation whilst at the same time understanding existing structures and how these could be included moving forward.

Our proposal, together with UNESWA has the potential to develop a campus at Mafutseni, offering courses in cannabis cultivation etc, and with a world market opening up, these would be sought-after qualifications, as well as a first on the continent. Our research will develop exclusive genetics, and we would provide locally developed and unique seed to local growers as well as export markets.
 
Let’s broaden the debate.
Umjono is a founder member of Eswatini Cannabis Association.

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