Ras Simba critical of island’s first medical cannabis dispensary

Barbados’ first licensed medicinal cannabis dispensary is facing criticism over product quality and pricing, with concerns also raised that the system sidelines traditional users.

Paul Ras Simba Rock, who helped shape national cultivation standards alongside the Barbados Medical Cannabis Licensing Authority (BMCLA) and the TVET Council, says the medical cannabis industry disregards the lived experiences of traditional users like those in the Rastafarian community.

The dispensary, Island Therapeutics Inc, was officially opened last month at its Worthing, Christ Church location, witnessed by government ministers and members of the medical, academic and Rastafarian communities.

Rock, who told Barbados TODAY that he boycotted the event, raised concerns about pricing, saying the dispensary’s cost structure mirrors that of illegal street vendors without the same risks.

“Street prices involve the risk of being caught, you’re paying for that… the risk of bandits, and having to pay who we have to pay,” he said, as he questioned how a legal system, free from the threat of raids, seizures, or bribes, could arrive at the same cost structure as illegal trade.

The longtime herbalist and outspoken activist also pointed to what he called confusion surrounding the legality of transporting prescribed cannabis.

In response to the criticisms, the BMCLA said the country’s medicinal cannabis industry operates under a “robust regulatory framework” designed to ensure traceability, safety, and quality from seed to sale.

“Each product is tracked from seed to sale, allowing for full traceability. This system ensures that any irregularities can be swiftly identified and addressed, protecting both patients and the integrity of the industry,” said Acting CEO Shanika Roberts-Odle in a written statement.

She acknowledged that as with any emerging industry, there would be “differences of opinion and growing pains,” especially from individuals with informal experience referred to as “legacy cultivators.”

“We are proud to highlight that the first licensed medicinal cannabis dispensary in Barbados is locally owned and operated,” Roberts-Odle said. “This milestone reflects our commitment to empowering Barbadian entrepreneurs and building a homegrown industry that meets the needs of our people.”

Still, Rock contends that the regulatory framework prioritises pharmaceutical definitions of medicine while ignoring cultural knowledge.

“Your science doesn’t match my life,” he said, also taking a jab at those who have named the use of cannabis as a major contributor to the rising crime tide. “You’re trying to say that the herb is linked to the increase in violence… then my community, the Rastafari community, should be one of the most violent in Barbados. We smoke a … lot of herbs… and we’re not violent. We’re productive.”

Rock has also called for a more inclusive system where all Barbadians could be allowed to grow a limited amount of the plant and receive training to produce their own oils, rubs, and edibles.

“If the Rastafari community was given the job of managing the licensing authority, the first thing we would’ve done is say all Barbadians are allotted to grow maybe seven to a dozen plants, and be legally allowed to move with at least two ounces of herb” he said.

shannamoore@barbadostoday.bb