License for cannabis cultivation in Ghana is a recipe for disaster – Prof Akwasi Osei

A former Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Mental Health Authority, Ambassador Akwasi Osei, has warned that the legalization of cannabis cultivation in Ghana will have negative consequences for the country’s mental health and social stability.

He said that the economic benefits of cannabis cultivation are outweighed by the health risks and social problems it will cause.

According to him, cannabis is a major cause of mental illness in Ghana, especially among the youth.

He said that many people who use cannabis are unaware of the harmful effects it has on their brain and nervous system.

He said that cannabis can impair memory, concentration, learning, judgment, and decision-making. It can also trigger psychosis, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.

He said that the legalization of cannabis cultivation will increase the availability and accessibility of the substance, which will lead to more abuse and addiction.

He said that this will put more pressure on the already overstretched mental health system in Ghana, which lacks adequate facilities, personnel, and resources.

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He said that the cost of treating mental health problems caused by cannabis will be much higher than the revenue generated from its cultivation.

He also said that the legalization of cannabis cultivation will create more social problems, such as crime, violence, corruption, and terrorism.

He said that cannabis is often used by criminals and terrorists to finance their activities and to induce fear and aggression in their victims.

He said that cannabis can also affect the moral values and social norms of the society, leading to more deviant and antisocial behaviors.

He therefore urged the government and parliament to reconsider their decision to legalize cannabis cultivation in Ghana.

He said that the law that permits the cultivation of cannabis for medical and industrial purposes was unconstitutionally passed by parliament without proper consultation and public education.

He said that the law should be repealed or amended to ensure that only the approved varieties of cannabis with low levels of THC (the psychoactive component) are cultivated under strict regulation and supervision.

He also called for more public awareness and education on the dangers of cannabis use and abuse.

He said that the public should be informed about the signs and symptoms of cannabis-induced mental disorders and how to seek help.

He said that the government should also invest more in prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation programs for people who are affected by cannabis.

He made these remarks at the press launch of Mindfreedom Ghana, a mental health organization that advocates for human rights and dignity of people with mental health challenges.

The organization is also campaigning for comprehensive legislation to guide organ harvesting, organ donation, and organ transplantation in Ghana.

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