The South African Cannabis and Hemp Industry Development Association (SACHIDA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of the Cannabis and Hemp industries through advocacy, education, and collaboration. Rooted in the principles of Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS), SACHIDA seeks to bridge the gap between traditional wisdom and modern scientific advancements, fostering a holistic and inclusive approach to industry development.
SACHIDA plays a crucial role in policy engagement, working with government bodies, industry stakeholders, and research institutions to shape regulatory frameworks that support the sustainable growth of the Cannabis and Hemp sectors. By advocating for fair trade policies, equitable access to markets, and social justice reforms, the organization ensures that marginalized communities, small-scale farmers, and traditional healers have a stake in the emerging industry.
Education is at the heart of SACHIDA’s mission. The organization promotes knowledge-sharing through workshops, training programs, and research collaborations that empower individuals and businesses with the skills needed to navigate the evolving regulatory and commercial landscapes. It also supports scientific research to enhance the understanding of Cannabis and Hemp applications in medicine, agriculture, and industrial innovation.
Through strategic partnerships, SACHIDA has facilitated large-scale offtake agreements with both local and international buyers, creating secure markets for South African Hemp and Cannabis products. These agreements provide stability for farmers, enabling them to scale production while ensuring economic sustainability for the sector. By connecting producers with reliable global supply chains, SACHIDA plays a pivotal role in driving investment, fostering innovation, and positioning South Africa as a competitive player in the international Cannabis and Hemp markets.
Committed to environmental sustainability, the organization advocates for regenerative agriculture, biodiversity conservation, and eco-friendly product development. SACHIDA envisions a thriving South African Cannabis and Hemp industry that contributes to economic growth, social upliftment, and environmental stewardship. By integrating Indigenous Knowledge with contemporary innovation, the organization is paving the way for a future where Cannabis and Hemp serve as key drivers of health, sustainability, and economic empowerment across Africa.
To establish South Africa as a global leader in sustainable Cannabis and Hemp innovation, trade, and policy development.
Chairperson
Katlego George Kgopotse is a visionary leader, farmer, and biodiversity specialist with nearly two decades of experience in agriculture, environmental education, and business management. He serves as Chairman of the South African Cannabis and Hemp Industry Development Association (SACHIDA) and Youth Chairman of the African Farmers Association of South Africa (AFASA), Gauteng Province. With expertise in biodiversity, he has worked as an Environmental Education Officer at the South African National Biodiversity Institute and as a Researcher at the Agricultural Research Council, focusing on South African medicinal plants. He was appointed by the Department of Science and Innovation as a Business Accelerator for Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS). Katlego holds degrees in Agricultural Science (TUT), Agri-Business Management (UNISA), and Business Management (UP). As Managing Director of Bathlale Ba Rramutla Farms, he drives sustainable agriculture and economic empowerment in South Africa.
Vice Chairperson
Cian McClelland is a visionary entrepreneur, researcher, and advocate for Indigenous Knowledge Systems, with over 35 years of experience in health and wellness, sustainable agriculture, and product innovation. As CEO of Druids Holdings, he leads the development of medicinal plant and mushroom formulations, as well as hemp and cannabis-based products for economic empowerment and environmental sustainability. A qualified Traditional Doctor with a Diploma in Medicinal Cannabis, he has secured key permits for medicinal hemp, cannabis, and psilocybin research. As Vice Chairman of SACHIDA and a founding member of AHCSA, he drives policy reform and community-based initiatives. Cian has partnered with leading institutions to advance botanical research and facilitate SAHPRA-approved cannabis medicines. Committed to integrating traditional wisdom with modern innovation, his work fosters sustainable livelihoods, environmental regeneration, and community empowerment across Africa.
Secretary General
Myrtle Clarke is a veteran cannabis activist, policy advocate, and Managing Director of Fields of Green for ALL NPC. As the remaining half of the Dagga Couple, she has played a pivotal role in strategic litigation, public education, and international advocacy for cannabis reform. With decades of experience in policy discussions, Myrtle serves as Secretary of the South African Cannabis and Hemp Industry Development Association (SACHIDA), where she engages with government and industry stakeholders to drive informed dialogue on regulation and legislative reform. Her mission is to ensure a just and inclusive cannabis industry, leveraging her expertise to influence policy frameworks that support economic growth, human rights, and responsible cannabis use. Committed to systemic change, Myrtle continues to be a leading voice in the fight for cannabis legalisation, using strategic action and advocacy to create a future where cannabis is recognised for its social, economic, and medicinal potential.
Treasurer
Tebogo G. Tlhopane is a visionary entrepreneur, business strategist, and advocate for medical innovation and plant-based healing. His expertise spans technology, finance, and holistic health, with a focus on bridging scientific advancements and traditional healing practices. As Treasurer of the South African Cannabis and Hemp Industry Development Association (SACHIDA), he plays a key role in shaping industry policies and sustainable growth. He is also the Chairman of the Cannabis Trade Association Africa (CTAA) and a founding member of Neurogenix, which pioneers research on psilocybin for mental health treatment. Tebogo holds a strong track record in business and technology, having held executive positions in IT, payments, and telecommunications. As Founder of Biomuti, he integrates South Africa’s biodiversity into innovative health solutions, furthering his commitment to natural medicine and wellness.
Research Director
Dinake Motona, known as ‘The General,’ is a pioneering advocate for sustainable agriculture, rural development, and the industrialization of hemp in South Africa. As the founder of 420Tribe and Nongo’s Joint, and a partner at We Work Hemp, he integrates Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) with modern agribusiness to advance regenerative farming, hemp cultivation, and environmental stewardship. Motona serves as an advisory board member for Cheeba Cannabis Academy and the Hemp Innovation Hub at the University of Johannesburg’s Centre of Ecology and Intelligence, championing education, research, and innovation in the hemp and cannabis industries. He is also a key figure in policy advocacy as part of the North West Hemp and Cannabis Committee, endorsed by the provincial Department of Agriculture. Dedicated to economic inclusivity and biodiversity conservation, he leads efforts in local landrace hemp seed development, biochar production, and community-based processing hubs to transform South Africa’s agricultural landscape.
Head Of Legal
David Dison is a distinguished legal expert with over 35 years of experience in regulatory frameworks and emerging industries. As SACHIDA’s Head of Legal, he provides critical guidance on cannabis and hemp legislation, drawing from his extensive background in pioneering legal structures for new sectors. Previously, he led the team that drafted South Africa’s first independent radio and broadcasting regulations, demonstrating his ability to create effective governance for nascent industries. His expertise in cannabis regulation includes developing comprehensive frameworks for the Cannabis for Private Purposes Act (CfPPA), designing licensing systems for cannabis communities, and creating legal structures for private cannabis associations. David advocates for ‘light-touch’ regulation that balances industry growth with public safety and compliance. His strategic approach to legal challenges has been instrumental in navigating the complex regulatory landscape of South Africa’s emerging cannabis and hemp sectors, making him an invaluable asset to SACHIDA’s mission of industry development.
IKS Director
Qhuzulini John Sithole is a revered guardian of Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) and a champion of African cultural heritage. For over four decades, he has preserved and promoted African traditions in music, dance, spirituality, food, and medicine. As National President of the African Cultural Heritage Trust, he has led policy reforms and strengthened cultural institutions. He has served as a board member of MOSHITO, a founding member of SAMIC, and Chairman of Intamoyenkunzi Primary Agricultural Co-op. His expertise is widely sought in media. A master curator, he directed the Zindala Zombili African Music and Dance Festival and led 300 traditional dancers at the 2010 FIFA World Cup. He has influenced cultural policy as an Executive Committee member of the South African National Commission for UNESCO and as a board member of SACHIDA. Recognized as a Living Treasure by the National Heritage Council, his legacy ensures Africa’s cultural heritage thrives for generations.
Support
An experienced activist who specialises in Harm Reduction, Ami is Myrtle’s right hand and supports the SACHIDA Board with administration and communication. With extensive local and international activism experience, Ami is widely connected within cannabis communities and serves as a bridging influence between those on the ground and the lofty hallways of policy.
