This article first appeared in Ventureburn  on 12 May 2023

In the fast-evolving world of entrepreneurship, cannabis and hemp have emerged as promising sectors, offering lucrative business opportunities. Recognising the immense potential of these industries, Cheeba Cannabis Training, Africa’s leading cannabis and hemp educator, has joined forces with Training Force to equip entrepreneurs with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in this burgeoning field.

The partnership between Cheeba Cannabis Training and Training Force is set to revolutionise the African cannabis and hemp industry by expanding training opportunities and fostering entrepreneurship. Through this collaboration, learners will gain access to a network of over 45 Training Force sites across the continent, in addition to Cheeba’s seven official cannabis and hemp training centres.

This joint effort aims to deliver high-quality training programmes that educate individuals on the practicalities, benefits, uses, and regulations surrounding cannabis and hemp, while also creating employment prospects.

The global cannabis market has experienced an unprecedented boom in recent years, and South Africa is no exception. According to Polaris Market Research, the global industrial hemp market was valued at $4.26 billion in 2021 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 16.9% by 2030. And with Africa boasting about 200 million hectares of uncultivated land, the continent is poised to become a leading player in hemp cultivation and processing.

In South Africa, the cannabis industry holds significant promise for economic growth.

The legalisation of cannabis for personal and private use has paved the way for a thriving market. Entrepreneurs are capitalising on the expanding consumer demand for cannabis products, ranging from medicinal applications to lifestyle and wellness offerings. The need for well-trained professionals and entrepreneurs in this sector is paramount to ensure responsible and sustainable growth.

“Establishing a robust regulatory system is of utmost importance,” said Mayanda Bam, a renowned consultant from BCubed Consulting Friends of Hemp and an ardent activist for cannabis reform, during the partnership celebration event held at the Cheeba Cannabis Training Centre in Midrand, Gauteng.

His inspiring talk shed light on the pressing need for regulatory reform and the establishment of a commercial framework that ensures the responsible and safe cultivation, distribution, and consumption of cannabis.

Daniel Orelowitz, managing director of Training Force, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, recognising its significance in propelling the hemp industry forward in Africa. He said, “We aim to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in this exciting and rapidly growing industry which will play a significant role in job creation.”

Meanwhile, Linda Siboto, co-founder of Cheeba Cannabis Training, emphasised the importance of this partnership in broadening their reach and providing access to hemp education across the continent.

“The collaboration with Training Force will allow us to broaden our reach and provide access to hemp education for individuals across the continent to support job creation and SMME development. We look forward to leveraging Training Force’s vast network of training sites and infrastructure to achieve this,” he said.

As part of their commitment to delivering industry-aligned training, the partnership will initially offer SETA-aligned NQF Level 2 and 4 programmes covering topics such as “How to start a hemp business,” “Hemp cultivation and processing,” and Africa’s first accredited hempcrete building course in partnership with Afrimathemp.

Accredited by the SA Council for Architectural Profession and the Engineering Council of SA, these programmes will provide learners with the necessary skills to excel in their entrepreneurial pursuits.

The collaboration between Cheeba Cannabis Training and Training Force comes at a pivotal moment in Africa’s cannabis and hemp industry. As entrepreneurs and policymakers work together to establish a robust regulatory framework, the stage is set for a progressive and thriving future. Through quality education and training, individuals will be equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the evolving landscape of the cannabis and hemp sectors.

As the demand for cannabis and hemp products continues to rise globally, South Africa is positioning itself as a key player in this burgeoning market. The collaboration between Cheeba Cannabis Training and Training Force is said to align with the country’s vision for economic development and entrepreneurship, creating new avenues for job creation and stimulating small and medium-sized enterprises.

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