Cannabis use, possession, cultivation, and sale are illegal in Guinea-Bissau. However, it is said that cannabis use is quite common among locals and that the law is more lenient on personal use possession.

The country is a frequent drug trade route through which legalized African countries such as South Africa or illegal cannabis hubs like Malawi transport their recreational cannabis to Europe and North America.

As such, Guinea’s drug policy is strict in nature for drug traffickers, leading to severe punishment for those who violate the rules.

Medical Marijuana Laws in Guinea-Bissau

Guinea-Bissau is distinct from the countries Guinea and Equatorial Guinea but shares in common with its neighbors the blanket ban on recreational and medical marijuana.

The cultivation or possession of any form of marijuana or products is against the country’s drug policy.

Most law enforcement, however, reportedly treats personal use leniently and will not prosecute (or will accept bribes) those with only small amounts of marijuana, such as 5 grams of flower.

According to a recent research report, this is possibly due to some involvement of law enforcement with the narcotic drug trade.

The theory of political or law enforcement involvement in cannabis trafficking was reinforced in 2022 when the country was designated a “narco-state” by the United Nations.

What to Know About About Medical Cannabis in Guinea-Bissau

In Guinea-Bissau, all forms of cannabis are illegal for medical and recreational use, including CBD. Tourists cannot access medical marijuana and should not bring it into the country.

All Cannabis Is Illegal

The penalties for marijuana use, whether medicinal or recreational, are usually lenient as long as the perpetrator only has small amounts of cannabis.

However, Guinea-Bissau law states that those found guilty of possessing, using, or trafficking illegal drugs face severe punishments. Conviction penalties include long jail sentences stretching up to 18 years as well as heavy fines.

CBD Is Illegal

The laws in Guinea-Bissau don’t differentiate between different varietals of cannabis or cannabinoids. Therefore, cannabidiol (CBD) and CBD products are against the law, and those found in possession or selling such products are subject to penalties.

Can You Grow Cannabis in Guinea-Bissau?

No, it is against the law in Guinea-Bissau to grow marijuana plants, and violators face severe penalties. While small amounts of cannabis are illicitly produced in the country, Guinea-Bissau is a central transit point for illegal drugs.

The Bottom Line

Guinea-Bissau drug policy bans recreational or medical cannabis use, and the plant’s legal status is unlikely to change soon. If you reside in or are visiting Guinea-Bissau, it’s best to avoid marijuana and stay on the right side of the law.