In Mzansi, accessing the cannabis market presents both opportunities and challenges. With the legalisation of cannabis for personal and medicinal use, there’s a burgeoning market waiting to be tapped into.
The state of the cannabis industry and how to enter the market was discussed fully during the recent Mzansi Young Farmers Indaba at Lavendar Kontrei Market in Pretoria North.
A panel discussion consisting of cannabis legal expert Shaad Vayet, co-founder of Cheeba Academy Linda Sibotho, and hemp farmer and agripreneur Kitso Monyadi explored the good and the bad of the commodity.
Accessing the market
Vayet said for entrepreneurs looking to enter the cannabis market in Mzansi, it was crucial to understand and comply with the regulatory framework set forth by authorities. This includes obtaining the necessary licenses and permits required to cultivate, process, distribute, or sell cannabis products legally.
“Cannabis has moved from just being seen as a drug to being regulated more like medicinal plants. Overall, while the cannabis market in Mzansi offers promising opportunities, success requires diligence, compliance, and strategic planning.
“By navigating the regulatory landscape, building strong partnerships, and embracing innovative marketing tactics, entrepreneurs can carve out a profitable niche in this rapidly growing industry,” he said.
Breaking down the stigma
Sibotho asserts that farmers who are interested in entering the market should have an in-depth understanding of all the complexities and nuances of the cannabis industry, from the plant itself to the various products derived from it.
“I do feel that agricultural communities understand hard work, hardship, perseverance, and I think in this industry, we need all that and more so that we are able to thrive and create jobs and revive the economy of the country,” he said.
Monyadi shared how she found inspiration in a cannabis “guru”, who explained the many different products that come from cannabis and the amazing health benefits it offers.
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Learning this motivated Monyadi to delve deeper into hemp farming. She was excited about the possibility of not only contributing to the economy but also helping people lead healthier lives through her work.
“I didn’t expect everyone to be so receptive because there is a lot of stigmatisation associated with cannabis. People are not willing to evolve with the times.”
She said despite cannabis being commonly regarded as a drug, it offers numerous health benefits that people can benefit from. She also explained that her business supplies a cancer patient with cannabidiol oil (CBD oils)and teabags.
“When we were starting the hemp beverages, we gave her samples of five teas. It was very well received; everybody loves it,” she said.
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