Many African countries are striving to break free from the remnants of the colonial system that have long influenced their economies and governance structures. This desire for independence is driven by various factors, including economic challenges and a quest for self-determination. Several African nations are making strides toward shedding the vestiges of their colonial past. The reasons behind this movement are multifaceted, ranging from economic distress to a growing sense of national pride and self-reliance.

One of the most significant factors prompting African countries to reconsider their colonial ties is the economic downturn faced by nations like Nigeria. As Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria has seen a sharp decline in its GDP, exacerbating poverty levels and unemployment, which has led to widespread discontent among the populace. This economic slump has highlighted the need for Nigeria to explore alternative economic avenues to boost its economy and ensure sustainable growth.

In recent years, Nigeria has grappled with a series of economic challenges. The drop in global oil prices has severely impacted the nation’s revenue, as oil exports constitute a significant portion of Nigeria’s income. This dependence on a single commodity has made the economy vulnerable to international market fluctuations. Additionally, the country has struggled with internal issues such as corruption, inadequate infrastructure, and a high rate of population growth, all of which have further strained its economic stability.

Mali provides another example of a country striving to distance itself from colonial influence. Recently, Mali made headlines by expelling French troops and ceasing payments to France. This move was driven by a desire to reclaim sovereignty and reduce reliance on former colonial powers. Mali’s bold step signifies a broader trend across the continent, where nations increasingly question the benefits of maintaining colonial ties.

Mali’s decision to sever ties with France was not taken lightly. It followed years of dissatisfaction with French military intervention in the country, which many Malians felt did not address the root causes of instability and violence. By expelling French troops, Mali aims to assert its sovereignty and develop homegrown solutions to its security challenges. This move has been met with mixed reactions internationally, but it underscores a growing sentiment among African nations to take control of their destinies.

Nigeria has vast, high-value agricultural potential. The country produces over 43,000 hectares of potential medically developed cannabis products annually, with an average yield of 280 tons. This substantial production presents a unique opportunity for economic revival. If Nigeria were to leverage this cannabis for medicinal and industrial purposes, as Rwanda is currently doing, it could significantly boost its economy.

The global market for medically developed cannabis products is proliferating, driven by increasing acceptance of its medicinal and therapeutic benefits. For Nigeria, legalizing cannabis for medically developed products could open a lucrative industry, creating jobs and attracting investment. The country’s favorable climate and agricultural expertise position it well to become a significant player in the global medically developed cannabis products market. Additionally, regulating and taxing these products could provide the government with a new source of revenue, helping to diversify the economy away from its reliance on oil. The projected revenues from medically developed cannabis products are forecasted to exceed $120 billion per year in increased GDP.

A compelling example of the economic potential of medically developed cannabis products comes from KKOG GLOBAL. KKOG cultivates and manufactures cannabis-derived medicines in Africa, with facilities in Zimbabwe, South Africa, Malawi, and Rwanda. KKOG has patented medicines created in Africa for sale and export globally, aiming to create effective alternative treatments for various medical conditions. KKOG is currently in talks with Tanzania, Kenya, Ghana, CAR, and the authorities in Nigeria, as well as the Cancer Research Institute of Nigeria, to explore how a strategic partnership could replicate the same successes and contribute significantly to the country’s revenue growth.

If African nations were to follow a similar path and legalize cannabis for medicinal purposes, the economic benefits could be astronomical. By capitalizing on their existing agricultural capabilities, these countries could create a new industry that generates employment, boosts GDP, and reduces dependency on traditional economic models that have failed to deliver sustainable growth.

Several countries have already embraced the economic potential of cannabis-based medicine. Nations like Australia, the USA, Canada, Brazil, Germany, and South Africa have legalized such products and reaped the economic benefits. These countries serve as examples for African governments, demonstrating that the legalization of medically developed cannabis products can lead to economic growth and improved public health.
In Australia, the legalization of medicinal cannabis has created a new industry that supports thousands of jobs and generates significant tax revenue.

Similarly, Canada’s medically developed cannabis products industry has become a major economic driver, with legal sales surpassing those of alcohol in some regions. Germany’s medical cannabis program has provided patients with access to effective treatments while stimulating investment in research and development. In the USA, medically developed cannabis products sales have surpassed those of alcohol and cigarettes combined. South Africa, one of the few African countries that legalized medical cannabis, has seen positive economic and social impacts, paving the way for other nations.
The need for economic independence and self-reliance drives the desire of African nations to break free from the colonial system. The examples of Nigeria’s financial struggles and Mali’s stand against French influence underscore the urgency of finding alternative paths to growth. Legalizing and commercializing cannabis and cannabis-based medicines presents a viable solution. By leveraging their agricultural potential, African countries can boost their economies, create jobs, and improve public health.

Embracing this innovative approach could pave the way for a prosperous and self-sufficient future for the continent.
The legalization of cannabis for medicinal purposes offers a promising avenue for achieving these goals, providing a new source of revenue and fostering innovation in the pharmaceutical industry. As more countries recognize the benefits of medical cannabis legalization, Africa could lead the way in this emerging global market, securing a brighter future for its people. Let’s hope Nigeria does not delay and waste such a great opportunity for the country.

Prince Ugo Mike Enwerem, a public affairs analyst is based in Abuja