Ghanaian reggae artist Ras Kuuku has added his voice to the ongoing debate on cannabis legalization in Ghana. In a recent statement, Ras Kuuku emphasized the economic benefits of legalizing cannabis, citing the billions of dollars generated by countries that have already taken this step.
Ras Kuuku clarified that his advocacy for legalization is not an encouragement for people to smoke cannabis recklessly. Instead, he proposes that the government establish structures and laws to regulate the use of cannabis, ensuring that consumers are aware of their limits.
The artist’s argument is rooted in the potential economic gains and job creation opportunities that cannabis legalization could bring to Ghana. He pointed out that countries that have legalized cannabis are reaping significant financial benefits, and Ghana could follow suit.
“We’re not saying people should go out there and smoke. Whatever I said there were questions that I was asking. That, ‘is it bad for the Most High to create something?’ The people said no. I asked, ‘is it the devil who created it?’ They said no. So all I’m saying is, we’ve got so much money in that (cannabis).
“The countries who have legalized it are making billions from it so why don’t we also legalise it and make billions from it? It’ll create employment.
“When we legalize it, we need to put some structures or laws around it so that the people who’ll consume or use will know their limits.
“Because when you to where it has been legalized, that’s how it is made – when you’re asked to hold one gram, always be with one gram…so all were saying is, the government should legalize it, they shouldn’t let it be there and people will be misusing it.
“Legalise it and put structures around it and you gonna make a lot of money,” he stated
Ras Kuuku’s stance on cannabis legalization is not unique, as many experts and advocates have been pushing for a reevaluation of Ghana’s cannabis laws. The debate surrounding cannabis legalization is complex, with proponents arguing that it could generate revenue, create jobs, and improve public health, while opponents raise concerns about potential negative impacts on society.
As the conversation around cannabis legalization continues, Ras Kuuku’s contribution to the debate highlights the need for a nuanced and informed discussion about the potential benefits and drawbacks of legalizing cannabis in Ghana.
