The recent introduction of the Cannabis for Private Purposes Bill in parliament represents a
tentative but welcome step towards decriminalising marijuana use in South Africa. As Cosatu
spokesperson has indicated, the bill marks a positive move away from an ineffective and
harmful status quo.

However, the true test will be in the details and implementation. There are reasons to be
hopeful but also grounds for caution.

The bill aims to end the criminalisation of private adult dagga use and cultivation of plants for
personal consumption. This pragmatic approach focuses law enforcement efforts where they
should be – on illicit trafficking and distribution.

But rules around personal limits and plant quantities will need careful balancing. Excessively
stringent thresholds could still ensnare otherwise law-abiding citizens in the justice system.
Disproportionate restrictions could also sustain criminal networks profiting off small-scale
users.

Sensible public health education on cannabis risks is also needed. Decriminalisation should
not be mistaken for encouragement of use. Honest information can help moderate
behaviour.

There are also economic opportunities in legalising dagga, from tourism to new small
business prospects. But communities harmed by past criminalisation should see priority
benefits.

Done right, this reform can reduce stigma, decrease unsafe use, redirect wasted legal
resources and open new economic channels. Handled poorly, it risks deepening existing
social harms.

The Cannabis for Private Purposes Bill is a milestone, but policymakers must now follow
through with care in designing a just, evidence-based system. With prudent regulation,
decriminalisation can start repairing decades of damage from heavy-handed enforcement.
But the work has just begun.