About ACHNP
The African Cannabis, Hemp and Natural Products Association (ACHNPA) was founded in 2024 with the vision of promoting the responsible cultivation, production, and use of cannabis and hemp in Africa. Recognizing the immense potential of these natural resources to drive economic growth and improve livelihoods, the association brought together industry stakeholders, researchers, and advocates to advance the industry.
Vision
Our vision is to create a thriving and sustainable cannabis and hemp industry in Africa, characterized by:
- Economic Empowerment: Driving job creation and economic development across the continent.
- Social Impact: Improving healthcare access, promoting sustainable agriculture, and addressing social inequalities.
- Innovation: Fostering research and development to unlock the full potential of cannabis and hemp.
- Global Leadership: Position Africa as a leader in the global cannabis and hemp market.
Mission Statement
To promote the responsible cultivation, production, and use of cannabis and hemp in Africa, while advocating for sustainable practices and economic empowerment.
- Industry News: Latest updates on cannabis and hemp regulations, research, and market trends in Africa.
- Member Directory: A list of association members, including growers, processors, retailers, and researchers.
- Events and Workshops: Calendar of upcoming industry events and training opportunities.
- Resources: Access to educational materials, research papers, and policy briefs.
- Advocacy: Information on the association's advocacy efforts and policy positions.
Values
Our core values guide our actions and decision-making:
- Integrity: We uphold the highest ethical standards and transparency in our operations.
- Collaboration: We foster partnerships and cooperation among industry stakeholders to achieve shared goals.
- Education: We invest in education and training to empower industry professionals and consumers.
- Advocacy: We actively advocate for policies that support the growth and development of the cannabis and hemp industry.
Our Team
Dr. Bandile Mkhize
Chairperson
PhD in Tourism from the University of Durban Westville (University of KwaZulu-Natal)
Director of Tourism in Mpumalanga Province, Head of Department of Economic Affairs in
Mpumalanga Province, Chief Executive of Trade and Investment KwaZulu-Natal, various board positions
Kruger National Park, CEO of Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, past Regional President of the Black
Management Forum in KwaZulu-Natal
Tourism and economic development, tourism management and planning; has
travelled extensively abroad, visiting countries such as the USA, Canada, Netherlands, Australia, Germany,
South Korea, Spain, United Kingdom, Israel, Kenya, China, Mauritius, and Namibia, gaining broad exposure
and insights into different cultures and tourism industries around the world.
Dr. Essa Hlongwane
Deputy Chairperson
Completed school qualifying in Carpentry and Joinery, Math’s, Building Science, and Building Drawing, Completed several courses including Veterinary medicine diploma, Medical Fundamental diploma,
Homeopathy-Certificate, Master of Treatment, and more
Owner of Octopus Ethno-Medicine Clinic and Pharmacy, Operational Director for the EMPASA group
Spokesperson for the EMPASA group, Coordination of the relationship between Head Office and members
Herbology and natural medicine, Running his own business, the Octopus Ethno-Medicine Clinic and Pharmacy, Contributing to the alternative medicine field
Ms. Gugu Mkhwanazi
Secretary
National School of Governance (UKZN) - Advanced Management Development Program, Dyna Training College - Women in Aviation Emerging Management Program, Rand Afrikaans University - Bachelor of Pedagogics Degree, University of Zululand - Bachelor of Pedagogics Degree
KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government (Deputy Director), Ifihlile Raining Academy (Regional Manager), South African Airways (Station Manager)
Successfully restructuring SAA, Implementing resolutions of the Transformation Board at SAA, Training and placing over 10 000 youth into employment, Creating and establishing a Provincial Service Delivery Tracking System.
Leadership and management, Aviation industry, Training and education, Community development, Improving governance systems, Strategic management and administrative support
Ms. Sinenhlanhla Mzumbe
Deputy Secretary
Esayidi TVET College, Diploma in Farming Management (2020), Cedara College of Agriculture, Short course certificate in advanced soil fertility, irrigation system and cooperative management (2019), Redieming Time Multi-skills Training Services, Certificate in Artificial Insemination (2019)
Cedara College of Agriculture, In-service Trainee (2018-2020), Camlot Farm, AgriSeta Intern (2021), Dicla Training and Projects, Facilitator for Plant Production Level 5 (2022)
Demonstrated leadership skills while working as a Facilitator for Plant Production Level 5 at Dicla Training
and Projects
Farming and agriculture, Training and education, Community development, Improving governance systems
Ms. Nokukhanya Ngema
Treasurer
National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering, Tool, Jig & Die Maker trade certificate, Studying towards a Government Certificate of Competency in Factories
Currently working as an engineer in Toyota SA Motors, focusing on component test and new materials research, Founded Bold N Virtue Projects to support SMMEEs with tooling and prototyping, Executive member of NAFCOC KZN and NIC (National Industrial Chamber) in KZN.
Demonstrates strong leadership skills as an executive member of NAFCOC KZN and NIC (National Industrial Chamber) in KZN
Engineering and specifically component test and new materials research within quality assurance, Supporting and empowering small businesses in the engineering field, such as through Bold N Virtue Projects, Continuous learning and professional development, as evidenced by her pursuit of a Government
Certificate of Competency in Factories.
Prof. Nceba Gqaleni
Additional member
Research Professor and acting Academic Leader of the Discipline of Traditional Medicine at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Faculty member of the Africa Health Research Institute and Adjunct Professor: Durban University of Technology
rained as a biochemist, obtained doctorate from the University of Strathclyde in 1996, Expertise in immunology, infectious and non-infectious diseases, and traditional Medicine
Interim Traditional Health Practitioners Council of South Africa appointed by the Minister of Health. Chair of Indigenous Health Care Systems Research, Service on various national and international bodies, including the Presidential Task Team on African Traditional Medicine and the WHO (African Regional Office) expert committee on Traditional Medicine. Deputy Dean of the Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine. Member of the WHO Regional Expert Committee on Traditional Medicine for COVID-19.
Research in traditional medicine, including immunology, infectious and non-infectious diseases
Mrs. Zanele Mjadu
Additional member
B.Paed and B.Ed. Honors Degree from the University of Zululand. Business Management Diploma from Gibbs Business Schoo
Retired teacher and transitioned into running various businesses, demonstrating her entrepreneurial skills. Executive Board member of NAFCOC KZN, SANACO, and South African Women in Construction
Executive leadership roles in various organizations, including NAFCOC KZN and SANACO.
Running a construction, events and management company. Community service and representation of women in the construction, mining and manufacturing sectors.
Mr. Siboniso Ndlela
Additional member
Degree in Basic Management of a co-operative from Coastal KZN College. Training in starting one's trucking business from Edu Fleet
Over 20 years in the movement and management of cargo, starting as a driver and shop steward. Started his own businesses, Mug Construction and Multi First Class Funeral Services, driven by a passion for local economic development
Established Mug Construction and Multi First Class Funeral Services, demonstrating leadership skills in business management and entrepreneurship. Utilized his experience in the logistics industry, particularly as a driver and shop steward, to start his own trucking business, Edu Fleet. Has a background in basic management of cooperative from Coastal KZN College, indicating an interest in collaborative leadership
Local economic development and community empowerment
Mr. Siboniso Ndlovu
Additional member
Works for the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, serving for the past 15 years
Matric and various NQF certification levels, including in Civil Engineering, Business Marketing, Computer Course, Beekeeping, and Production of Medical Cannabis
Exposure to Farm Aid (Farm service), Research Aid (Horticulture) and work with multiple supervisors. Participation in various projects, including advising farmers, mentoring students, and assisting colleagues with their theses.
Demonstrated leadership skills through his work with the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, serving for the past 15 years, and engaging in various projects. Strong commitment to education and mentorship, as shown in his involvement in advising farmers, mentoring students, and assisting colleagues with their theses
Agriculture and farming, specifically in Farm Aid (Farm service), Research Aid (Horticulture), and the production of medical cannabis