Saint Kitts and Nevis has established the nation’s Medicinal Cannabis Authority. It is an important step toward a thriving, local industry which benefits patients.
Saint Kitts-Nevis, an island country consisting of 2 islands between the Atlantic Ocean (Atlantic) and Caribbean Sea (Caribbean), is home for more than 54,000 inhabitants. In terms of area as well as population, it is the Western Hemisphere’s smallest sovereign nation.
Timothy Harris, then Prime Minister of the United States, announced in 2019, that his administration would bring legislation into effect to decriminalize cannabis recreational use and legalize medical marijuana for people over 18 years old. In the same year, Rastafarians, other adults, and even those over 18 can cultivate, use and possess cannabis privately.
The Medicinal Cannabis Authority will be established in April 2020. It is responsible for regulating and regulating this industry, and developing a licensing system that includes cultivation, production, and supply.
Last week, the Authority officially launched.
Cannabis Board is the authority’s director. The Board’s director, Mrs. Jihan Williams-Knight, says the Authority has dual responsibilities – promoting access and education, and preventing cannabis misuse.
It is the Medicinal Cannabis Authority’s job to address these legal nuances. We also need to dispel stigmas and public health concerns to make sure that medicinal cannabis access is open, transparent, fair, and reasonable.
Amendments made to the Cannabis Act of 2023 transferred the control of the cannabis industry in the country from the prime minister to the Minister for Agriculture.
Samal Duggins, Agriculture Minister, said: “This is a momentous occasion, as we enter the medicinal cannabis market with insight, knowledge, and experience. We are ready to go.” By learning from other people, we’ve crafted a thoughtful, strategic and unique approach.
The Government Information Service said The nation enters a new era “with confidence”.
This is a significant step in the advancement of healthcare, social justice, and economic growth. In a well regulated system, cannabis will soon be available to patients older than 21.
In recognition of Rastafarians’ role in the community, the Authority decided to waive any fees associated with Rastas.
“This is not just the establishment of an institution—it is a commitment to fairness, respect, and historical acknowledgement,” said Minister Duggins.