The International Cannabis Symposium 2026, hosted at the University of Cape Town from 25–27 June, brought together some of the brightest minds in cannabis policy, science, cultivation and business. Under the theme “Back to Basics: Creating Foundational Policy & Law for Equitable Global Cannabis and Hemp”, the three-day event attracted researchers, policymakers, entrepreneurs, cultivators and activists from across South Africa and around the world. The symposium reinforced Cape Town’s growing reputation as one of Africa’s leading destinations for meaningful cannabis dialogue and innovation.
Rather than focusing on product showcases or commercial exhibitions, the symposium centered on evidence-based discussions around legislation, patient access, research, international trade and the future of responsible cannabis regulation. For those working within South Africa’s rapidly evolving cannabis industry, it was an invaluable opportunity to learn directly from global experts while also hearing uniquely African perspectives.
Day One: Building the Foundations
The opening day set the tone for the entire symposium, with discussions centred on the importance of creating practical and equitable cannabis policies that balance public health, economic opportunity and social justice.
One of the standout keynote speakers was cannabis pioneer Steve DeAngelo, whose decades of advocacy have helped shape the legal cannabis movement in the United States. His message reminded delegates that meaningful reform requires persistence, education and collaboration between governments, businesses and communities.
The One Plant Alliance proposes a single policy for regulating all industry sectors—Legacy, Licensed, and Hemp—anchored by three simple, universal principles:
- Age Verification for responsible access.
- Testing for purity and potency.
- Labeling for transparency and safety.
This pragmatic structure, known as the Three Golden Pillars, coupled with removing “marihuana” from the schedules, establishes a level playing field that can be adopted federally and by all fifty states without new bureaucracy or costly enforcement mechanisms. By creating one consistent standard for the regulation of all cannabis products (including hemp), we will protect public health, promote entrepreneurship, and restore fairness to small farmers and businesses across the country. Source
The day’s programme also explored international regulatory frameworks, compliance challenges and the importance of evidence-based policymaking. Speakers highlighted how countries continue to face many of the same obstacles despite operating under vastly different legal systems. While legalisation has accelerated globally, sustainable regulation remains an ongoing process rather than a final destination.
Networking throughout the day proved equally valuable, with delegates from across Africa, Europe and North America exchanging ideas and discussing opportunities for future collaboration.
Day Two: International Expertise Meets African Opportunity
The second day featured a diverse lineup of international speakers who examined cannabis through scientific, economic and legal lenses.
Cannabis economist Beau Whitney provided valuable insight into global market trends, supply chains and the economic realities facing emerging cannabis industries. His presentation demonstrated how reliable data and careful planning are essential for building profitable and sustainable cannabis businesses.
International legal expert Franziska Katterbach explored the rapidly changing European cannabis landscape, highlighting how regulatory consistency and international cooperation will become increasingly important as global cannabis trade expands.
Among the South African speakers, Kobus Schoeman from South African Cannabis Clubs Alliance delivered practical insights into local cultivation and commercial development, while several panel discussions examined South Africa’s position within the global cannabis economy. Conversations repeatedly returned to the country’s unique advantages, including favourable growing conditions, experienced cultivators and internationally recognised landrace genetics.
The day reinforced that South Africa has enormous potential, but success will depend on developing transparent regulations, supporting local entrepreneurs and creating opportunities that benefit rural communities alongside commercial operators.
Perhaps the biggest takeaway from Day Two was that Africa is no longer viewed simply as an emerging market. Increasingly, it is being recognised as an important contributor to global cannabis research, cultivation and policy development.
Day Three: African Voices Shape the Future
Although shorter than the previous sessions, the final day delivered some of the symposium’s most thought-provoking presentations.
Dr Shiksha Gallow presented an engaging discussion highlighting the importance of scientific research, responsible regulation and public health within the cannabis sector. Her presentation emphasised that evidence should remain at the centre of future policymaking as South Africa continues refining its cannabis framework.
Equally compelling was the presentation by Kandake Tebogo “Tia” Ramfate from the Soweto Cannabis Association. Her perspective reminded delegates that cannabis reform is not solely about commercial opportunity but also about ensuring historically marginalised communities have a meaningful place within the legal industry.
Her presentation highlighted the importance of inclusivity, social justice and grassroots participation in shaping South Africa’s cannabis future. These conversations resonated strongly throughout the audience, reinforcing that successful legalisation must benefit communities that have carried the legacy of prohibition for decades.
The final discussions encouraged delegates to continue working together across disciplines, recognising that meaningful cannabis reform requires cooperation between researchers, legislators, businesses, cultivators and community organisations.
Looking Ahead
The International Cannabis Symposium 2026 demonstrated that South Africa is becoming an increasingly important voice within the global cannabis conversation. While many regulatory challenges remain, the event showcased the depth of expertise already present within the country and the growing international interest in Africa’s cannabis potential.
Perhaps the greatest strength of the symposium was its diversity. International academics shared the stage with local activists, economists alongside cultivators, and policymakers with entrepreneurs. This created meaningful conversations that extended far beyond legislation, touching on sustainability, equity, patient access, scientific research and responsible industry growth.
As South Africa continues to refine its cannabis regulations, events such as the International Cannabis Symposium play an essential role in connecting global experience with local realities. They provide an environment where ideas can be challenged, partnerships can be formed and practical solutions can emerge.
For everyone fortunate enough to attend, the symposium was a reminder that the cannabis industry is still evolving. The conversations held over these three days will undoubtedly contribute to shaping not only South Africa’s cannabis future but also the broader international movement towards sensible, evidence-based cannabis policy.
As the delegates departed Cape Town, one message remained clear: collaboration, education and inclusivity will be the foundations upon which the next chapter of the global cannabis industry is built.
