By Michael Gwarisa
Medicinal cannabis producers in Zimbabwe have been warned to urgently renew their operating licences as permits issued in 2021 reach the end of their five year validity period. The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe has confirmed that all affected licences will expire this year and has stressed that late applications will not be accepted.
In a formal notice to licence holders, the Authority said producers involved in the cultivation of cannabis for medicinal and scientific purposes must ensure that their renewals are submitted before the expiry date to avoid disruptions to their operations. The reminder applies to licences issued under the first round of approvals following the introduction of the Dangerous Drugs regulations that legalised controlled medicinal cannabis production in Zimbabwe.
MCAZ Director General Mr Richard Rukwata said the Authority was giving early notice to allow producers adequate time to comply with renewal requirements.
Licences issued in 2021 were valid for five years and are now lapsing, making renewal mandatory for continued lawful operations.
He said failure to act within the required timeframe would result in automatic loss of licensing status, as the Authority is not permitted to process renewal applications once a licence has expired.
According to the Authority, the renewal process is governed by the Dangerous Drugs Regulations contained in Statutory Instrument 62 of 2018. These regulations require licensed producers to lodge renewal applications before expiry and to demonstrate continued compliance with conditions originally attached to the licence. The application must be accompanied by the prescribed renewal fee, a copy of the existing licence, and a declaration signed by the authorised person confirming that all licensing information remains accurate and complete.
The declaration must also confirm that the licence holder continues to meet the regulatory requirements related to production, security, record keeping and operational oversight. Where any changes have occurred since the original licence was issued, these must be fully disclosed as part of the renewal process.
MCAZ has further advised that producers must submit the official application form used for cannabis production licensing. In cases where there have been changes in company ownership or directorship, applicants are required to provide updated company records, certified identification documents for new directors, and security clearance documentation including fingerprints processed by the Zimbabwe Republic Police. Proof of compliance with all conditions imposed by the Minister of Health at the time of licensing is also required.
The Authority has clarified that once a renewal application has been properly lodged before the expiry date, the licence remains valid until a decision is communicated by the Minister. This provision is designed to protect producers from operational interruptions caused by administrative delays, provided they have complied fully with the law.
As part of the renewal process, MCAZ has issued a proforma invoice indicating that the cannabis licence renewal fee is set at twenty thousand United States dollars. The Authority has confirmed that its cash office is operational and able to accept payments, while bank deposits can be made through a designated Nedbank account in Harare. Producers have been cautioned that bank transfers may attract charges that could result in underpayment, and they are advised to cover any shortfalls to ensure full settlement of fees.
MCAZ has also urged licence holders to submit proof of payment promptly, clearly referencing the invoice number or purpose of payment to avoid delays in processing applications.
Zimbabwe legalised the production of cannabis for medicinal and scientific use as part of efforts to diversify agricultural exports and attract investment into pharmaceutical research and manufacturing. Since the introduction of the licensing framework, several companies have entered the sector, positioning the country as a potential regional supplier of medicinal cannabis products.
