Technical Working Group undertakes Consultations on Cannabis Policy Reform

A series of consultations is being undertaken by the Technical Working Group on National Cannabis Policy Reform, constituted by the National Agency for Drug Control (NADC) to undertake a structured, evidence-based assessment of alternative cannabis policy models applicable to the Republic of Mauritius.

The report of the Technical Working Group is expected to be finalised by mid-June 2026 and will be submitted to the National Drug Control Commission chaired by the Prime Minister, Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam.

These announcements were made, yesterday, by the Chief Executive Officer of the NADC, Mr Kunal Naik, during a press conference held at The Docks in Port Louis. The Chairperson of the NADC, Ms Nadia Peerun along with members of the NADC and the Technical Working Group were present as well.

The Chief Executive Officer of NADC recalled the mandate of the Technical Working Group is to examine the feasibility, implications, and safeguards associated with alternative cannabis policy models, including depenalisation, decriminalisation and the relevant legal frameworks. He underpinned that the role of the Working Group is strictly technical and advisory, and that the final decisions rest with the National Drug Commission and the Government. Mr Naik expressed the hope that the recommendations contained in the report would bring about positive changes, while underlining the human impact of such reforms.

As per the timeline for the consultations, plenary sessions will be held until 08 May 2026 as part of a two-week National Consultation Forum. A portal is being developed to enable the submission of proposals and suggestions from stakeholders and the public. Regional and district consultations are also scheduled from 11 to 22 May 2026.

Additionally, people with lived experiences, namely current and former users, medical cannabis users and affected families, will be able to share their views and suggestions through confidential focus group activities and interviews.

The Chief Executive Officer of NADC was adamant that the report would be evidence-based, relying on established data, experiences and research. He stated that the collaboration of various key researchers and experts have been enlisted. Mr Naik moreover highlighted the importance of enabling people to speak without fear, while underlining the confidentiality of the consultation exercise.

Mr Naik also elaborated on the prevention and awareness programmes already undertaken by the NADC in the fight against drugs in collaboration with the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, the Ministry of Education and Human Resource, and the Ministry of Youth and Sports. He underscored the necessity not only of sensitising young people but also of gathering their views on the issue.

01 May 2026

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Topics: Health, Drugs