Marijuana Laws
As recorded December 15, 2025 · not verified as current law. Ethiopia law
Cannabis laws in Shashamane follow Ethiopia’s national law. Municipal rules rarely change cannabis legality; jurisdiction law is what matters for travelers.
Cannabis is illegal for both recreational and medical purposes. Penalties for possession or use can be severe. Legal risk is significant.
Quick facts
- Recreational: Illegal
- Medical: Illegal
- Possession: Illegal; harsh penalties
- Buying/Selling: Illegal
- Tourists: Subject to strict enforcement
Practical guidance
Avoid cross-border transport of cannabis products. Do not assume informal tolerance equals legality.
Law Enforcement
Police were rarely seen, and when they passed through they often seemed to leave the Rasta community alone. There was talk of a 100-birr payment after a stop, though that was an anecdote.
Where to Buy Marijuana
At the Rastafari settlement, the experience was often one of being offered a shared smoke. Farmers at the local market came up in conversations about larger amounts.
Marijuana Prices
About 50 birr, quoted as US$5 at the time. The quantity is recorded as “00 grams,” so the weight is unclear.
Types of Marijuana
Potent African Highland, mid-grade Gras and very strong Rasta Kush.
More Information
Shashamane, also written Shashemene, is in Oromia around 150 miles from Addis Ababa. After World War II, Haile Selassie granted land to make it possible for members of the Rastafari movement from the Caribbean to settle in Ethiopia. The settlement was reported at more than two hundred people. Nearby are Wondo Genet and the Senkele Wildlife Sanctuary.
In 2005, talk of reburying Bob Marley there caused controversy in Jamaica. Rita Marley described Ethiopia as his spiritual home. Thousands travelled to Shashamane for celebrations around what would have been his sixtieth birthday, bringing the town wider attention.