Malawi Cannabis Regulator David Chikomeni Chirwa Arrested with 19 kg of Cannabis

David Chikomeni Chirwa, a 49‑year‑old Rastafarian activist and board member of Malawi's Cannabis Regulatory Authority (CRA), was arrested at a roadblock in Jenda, Mzimba District. Police stopped his Toyota Sienta on a journey from Lilongwe to Mzuzu and seized 19.2 kilograms of suspected Cannabis sativa, commonly known as chamba, hidden in the vehicle. He was detained alongside 45‑year‑old Storm Kandodo of Mpulula Village. The pair are expected to appear in court on charges of possessing cannabis without a permit.

The arrest is notable because Chirwa serves on the board of the authority tasked with licensing and overseeing the legal cannabis industry, a sector Malawi is seeking to develop for commercial and export purposes. Authorities say the seizure underscores the government's effort to enforce cannabis regulations while the industry expands.