Malawi is fast becoming a regional leader in the medicinal cannabis and industrial hemp industry, attracting interest from neighbouring countries eager to learn from its regulatory framework and market dynamics.

This week (31st March-4th April, 2025), a delegation from the Zambia Defence Force National Service (ZDFNS), led by Deputy Commander of ZDFNS, Major General Ruben Mwewa, along with representatives from the Malawi Defence Force National Services, is in Malawi on a learning tour to understand how the country has structured its cannabis industry. 

Currently, in Zambia, the ZDFNS is the only entity legally permitted to cultivate and sell industrial hemp and medicinal cannabis. In contrast, Malawi has adopted a broader approach, allowing cooperatives, registered companies, and partnerships to participate in cultivation, processing, and trade of cannabis.

As part of their visit, the delegation toured Invegrow Ltd Facilities at Nangura Farm in Lilongwe, one of the Malawi’s first licensed medicinal cannabis and industrial hemp company. The team had the opportunity to observe cultivation, processing, and value addition techniques, including the production of oils, hemp protein powder, smokables, and hemp tea.

The learning tour will continue with visits to cannabis and hemp cooperatives and companies in Kasungu, Mzimba, and Lilongwe, where the delegation will interact with farmers and processors operating under Malawi’s progressive licensing system. These engagements will provide valuable insights into the role of smallholder farmers and cooperatives in the industry and the potential for economic empowerment through cannabis cultivation.

The exchange of knowledge between Malawi and Zambia marks an important step in regional collaboration within the cannabis sector, as both nations explore the best approaches to regulate and benefit from this fast-growing industry.