In the valleys of Eastern Mpondoland, particularly in villages like Dikidikini, farmers have been cultivating cannabis for over a century. However, the decriminalization of cannabis has now made it challenging for small-scale farmers to compete with more sophisticated operations, leading to a significant decline in their earnings. The once lucrative cash-crop can now barely cover basic groceries for these farmers.
With the oversupply of cannabis in urban areas and the impact of potent foreign strains on the market, Mpondo growers are facing a crisis. The shift in regulations and emergence of unregulated cannabis outlets have further worsened the situation. Despite hopes for economic growth and job creation in the cannabis and hemp industry, many challenges remain for small-scale farmers in Mpondoland.
While legal changes have provided some hope, the cost of entry into the legal cannabis trade remains high. Farmers like Khumbafathi are uncertain about the future as declining prices threaten their livelihoods. Government support is crucial to help these farmers navigate the changing landscape of the cannabis market.
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