Cannabis in Eswatini
Traditional crop known as "insangu"
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Cannabis in Eswatini (Swaziland) is a traditional crop called insangu in Swazi.[1] The plant is subject to drug control and remains illegal in almost all cases.
The local traditional plant variety (Cannabis strain) is known as "Swazi gold"; it is often bioprospected[2] and commands a high price due to its reputation for potency,[1] making it a genetic resource at risk of biopiracy.[3]
History and Culture
History
Arrived centuries ago, Cannabis has a long history in eSwatini, with early archaeological evidence dating back around 1200 CE after Arab merchants brought the plant from Asia.[2]
Culture
Besides being illicit, Cannabis remains widely grown in the country, and used for a variety of purposes. In 2006, a report of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime recognized eSwatini as one of the major producers in Southern Africa.[citation needed]
Illicit trade
Reportedly, Nigerian criminal syndicates are involved in the trade, with the best-quality cannabis being sent to Europe via South Africa and Mozambique.[4][5]
Legislation
Reform
In 2017, a group of Members of Parliament announced that legalizing cannabis in eSwatini could add US$1.63 billion to the economy, potentially tripling the Gross Domestic Product.[6]
