In a move to tap into the potential of the cannabis and hemp industry, the KwaZulu-Natal government, under the leadership of premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has initiated its inaugural Cannabis Conference & Expo. The event, which concludes on Saturday, 28 October 2023 at the Okhahlamba Sports Complex in Bergville, aims to capacitate local farmers and bolster the province’s economy.
Led by the MEC for agriculture and rural development, Super Zuma, and the MEC for economic development, tourism and environmental affairs, Siboniso Duma, the conference brings together industry leaders, experts, academics, traditional leaders from the Amakhosi, and local growers.
This two-day event is designed to facilitate knowledge exchange and brainstorming sessions on various aspects of the cannabis and hemp sector.
Key topics on the agenda include discussions on regulations, registration processes, production techniques, agro-processing, marketing strategies, and export opportunities. Organisers say it also provides a platform for all stakeholders within the value chain to engage in comprehensive dialogues aimed at shaping the future of the cannabis industry in KwaZulu-Natal.
A jam-packed programme
Furthermore, representatives from government funding agencies, including the KZN Growth Fund, Ithala, and Dube Trade Port, as well as Trade & Investment KwaZulu-Natal, are present to discuss available opportunities for local farmers. This collaborative effort emphasises the government’s commitment to supporting farmers and entrepreneurs in the cannabis and hemp sector.
A significant highlight of the conference is the issuance of permits to 644 hemp and cannabis farmers registered in the database of the KwaZulu-Natal department of agriculture and land reform.
These permits, scheduled to be distributed on Sunday, 29 October, will grant farmers access to cutting-edge technology through the analytical lab based in Cedara College of Agriculture. This move is set to revolutionise farming practices, ensuring the cultivation of high-quality cannabis and hemp products.
The event is open to the public, and attendees will have the opportunity to interact with experts, industry professionals, and government representatives.
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