What is the legal status of cannabis in Gabon?
In Gabon, cannabis is illegal for recreational, medical, and industrial purposes. The possession, cultivation, sale, and consumption of cannabis are all criminal offenses under Gabonese law. However, the enforcement of these laws is not consistent and may vary depending on the region and local authorities. Regardless, it is important to understand that using or possessing cannabis in Gabon can lead to legal consequences.
What is the public opinion on cannabis in Gabon?
Public opinion on cannabis in Gabon is generally conservative, with most Gabonese citizens considering the drug to be harmful and dangerous. This view is partly influenced by the country’s predominantly Christian and Muslim religious beliefs, which tend to discourage the use of intoxicating substances. However, there is a growing minority of people, particularly among the younger generation, who are becoming more open to the idea of legalizing cannabis for medical or recreational purposes. It is important to note that these views are not yet widespread, and the overall public opinion remains largely opposed to cannabis legalization.
What are the laws and penalties regarding cannabis in Gabon?
The laws and penalties regarding cannabis in Gabon are strict and can lead to severe consequences for those caught using, possessing, or trafficking the substance. Some of the penalties for cannabis-related offenses include:
- Possession: Possessing cannabis in Gabon is a criminal offense, and offenders can face up to six months in prison and a fine of up to 500,000 Central African Francs (approximately $900 USD).
- Consumption: Using cannabis in Gabon can result in a prison sentence of up to six months and a fine of up to 500,000 Central African Francs (approximately $900 USD).
- Trafficking: Trafficking or selling cannabis in Gabon is a more serious offense and can lead to a prison sentence of up to five years and a fine of up to 5,000,000 Central African Francs (approximately $9,000 USD).
- Cultivation: Cultivating cannabis in Gabon is also a criminal offense, and offenders can face up to three years in prison and a fine of up to 3,000,000 Central African Francs (approximately $5,400 USD).
What is cannabis called in Gabon?
In Gabon, cannabis is commonly referred to as Djamba or Yamba. These local names for cannabis are used throughout the country and are easily recognized by the population.
Is CBD legal in Gabon?
Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants, is also illegal in Gabon. CBD products, even those that do not contain THC (the psychoactive component in cannabis), are not allowed in the country. Importing or using CBD products can lead to legal consequences, similar to those for cannabis.
Is medical cannabis legal in Gabon?
Medical cannabis is not legal in Gabon. The government has not yet established any regulations or laws to allow for the use of cannabis for medical purposes. Patients who require medical cannabis for treatment must seek alternative options, as using cannabis for medical reasons is still considered a criminal offense in Gabon.
What are the cannabis cultivation regulations in Gabon?
Cannabis cultivation is strictly prohibited in Gabon. Growing cannabis plants, even for personal use or medical purposes, is considered a criminal offense and can result in imprisonment and fines. There are no regulations or allowances for cannabis cultivation in the country.
The primary law governing cannabis in Gabon is the Penal Code, which outlines the penalties and offenses related to drug use, possession, and trafficking. The specific articles and provisions related to cannabis can be found in the Gabonese Penal Code, available here (in French).
Additionally, Gabon is a signatory to several international drug control treaties, including the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs of 1961, the Convention on Psychotropic Substances of 1971, and the United Nations Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances of 1988. These treaties commit Gabon to implementing and enforcing laws related to the control and prohibition of cannabis and other drugs.