Africa Medical Cannabis Market, by Route of Administration

Growth Outlook

• The Africa Medical Cannabis Market, by Route of Administration market is on a steady long-term growth path. Segment value stands at roughly USD 568 Mn in 2026 and is projected to reach USD 735 Mn by 2027 — a gain of about 29% over the forecast period, translating to a CAGR in the double digits.
• What the regional split looks like (2026): Inhalation leads, holding roughly 58% of segment value — the single largest regional share. Oral is the second-largest contributor. Topical make up the remainder, in descending order.
• By 2027, Inhalation alone is expected to reach USD 431 Mn, with Oral at USD 201 Mn.

Market Dynamics

The African medical cannabis market is rapidly expanding, with many countries in the region beginning to recognize the potential benefits of this plant for medicinal purposes. As this industry continues to grow, it is becoming increasingly important to understand the various routes of administration that are being utilized in Africa for medical cannabis products.

The most common route of administration for medical cannabis in Africa is through smoking or inhalation. Inhaling the smoke from dried cannabis flowers is a fast-acting method of delivery, as the active compounds enter the lungs and are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream. This method is popular among patients who are seeking immediate relief from symptoms such as pain, nausea, or anxiety.

Another popular route of administration is through the ingestion of cannabis-infused edibles, such as cookies, candies, or capsules. Edibles are a convenient option for patients who prefer to avoid smoking and are looking for more discreet ways to consume medical cannabis. However, the effects of edibles can take longer to kick in compared to smoking, as the active compounds have to pass through the digestive system before entering the bloodstream.

Topical applications of medical cannabis are also gaining popularity in Africa, with products such as creams and ointments being used to treat localized pain and inflammation. These products are applied directly to the affected area and can provide targeted relief without the psychoactive effects often associated with other routes of administration.

In addition to these traditional methods, the African market is also seeing an increase in the use of sublingual cannabis products. These are tinctures and oils that are placed under the tongue for faster absorption into the bloodstream. This route of administration is becoming popular for its ease of use and fast-acting effects.

Finally, there is a growing interest in using medical cannabis products through transdermal patches. These are patches that are applied to the skin and slowly release cannabinoids into the body over a period of time. This method is gaining popularity as it eliminates the need for smoking or ingestion, providing a discreet and convenient form of administration.

In conclusion, the African medical cannabis market is embracing a diverse range of routes of administration for patients seeking relief from various medical conditions. From traditional smoking and ingestion methods to newer options such as transdermal patches, the evolving landscape of medical cannabis in Africa is providing patients with a wide variety of options to choose from for their individual needs.