The South African Cannabis and Hemp Industry Development Alliance (SACHIDA) is proud to highlight the recent international engagement of one of its founding members, Druid’s Garden, whose leadership continues to expand the footprint of South African cannabis expertise across the continent. Earlier this month, Cian McClelland, Chief Executive Officer of the Druids

SACHIDA helps to shape Botswana’s progress and urges urgent reform at home. Gaborone, Botswana – September 8, 2025 — Botswana is emerging as a leader in the hemp and cannabis sector after announcing decisive policies and regulatory timelines that could position it at the forefront of Southern Africa’s green economy.

Last week, SACHIDA had the privilege of attending The Cannabis Expo in Johannesburg, held from 30 May to 1 June. It was a buzzing three-day gathering of stakeholders across agriculture, medicine, industry, culture, regulation, and innovation — exactly the kind of space where our Association’s mission finds its fullest expression.

Cannabis is one of the world’s oldest cultivated plants, valued for fibre, food, medicine, and culture. Yet in South Africa, as in many countries, policy discussions remain clouded by misconceptions. One of the most persistent is the idea that “hemp” and “cannabis” are different species. Science tells a different story:

We are proud to introduce the South African Cannabis & Hemp Industry Development Association (SACHIDA) — a new, purpose-driven organisation founded to shape a fair, sustainable and truly Afrocentric cannabis and hemp industry in South Africa. SACHIDA was born from a shared recognition that this emerging industry holds extraordinary potential: