Cannabis bill a step in the right direction, but privacy and equality concerns remain

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South Africa is among countries moving to legalise its use through the Cannabis for Private Purposes Bill. Picture: Getty
South Africa is among countries moving to legalise its use through the Cannabis for Private Purposes Bill. Picture: Getty

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While this is a step in the right direction, the bill falls short and has the potential to create further discrimination and perpetuate a black market for drugs. The bill does not address the cross-impact this industry will have, specifically on overall public health management or on others such as the agricultural and economic sector.

The proposed law will regulate the privacy of individuals and their consumption of dagga – a maximum of 1.2kg of self-grown for two adults. Any use in public, around children or sale is criminalised, with those convicted facing up to 15 years in jail.

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