Cape Town – President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent visit to the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) was a blend of cutting-edge science, regulatory insight, and unexpected humour.
His playful interactions with researchers and ministers — particularly around cannabis products — quickly went viral, adding a light-hearted twist to what was otherwise a serious engagement.
Ramaphosa’s humorous remarks came shortly after the health department withdrew a controversial ban on cannabis-infused food products, following his call for further consultation.
During the tour, he raised questions about the safety and legality of CBD products, expressing concern over unregulated imports.
The mood lightened when senior researcher Phatheka Ndzotoyi introduced CBD-infused products and encouraged the president to sample them.
@athigeleba♬ original sound – Athi Geleba 🇿🇦
“Try them,” she said to him.
Ramaphosa responded with a playful quip: “What do you mean, try?” he asked, sparking laughter. He then proceeded to ask detailed questions about the production process and whether the products had any psychoactive effects.
Ndzotoyi assured him that the team used CBD isolate, which does not produce a high.
“They won’t make you high, we promise,” Ndzotoyi said.
It’s always nice to see the human side of people. Here Cyril Ramaphosa sniff a jar of weed and confirms that indeed it is weed 😂 Plus some more hilarity… pic.twitter.com/o2FjVVWq5u
— Wolf Totem (@CanisLupus003) April 13, 2025
The president went on to recall former health minister Aaron Motsoaledi’s concerns about cannabis edibles, leading to further discussion on regulatory compliance.
Ndzotoyi emphasised that all CSIR products adhere to strict health and SAHPRA guidelines.
Beyond the cannabis conversation, Ramaphosa toured several high-tech research facilities, including those focused on cybersecurity, energy storage, and biomanufacturing. He praised the CSIR’s role in driving innovation, job creation, and national development.
As the CSIR prepares to mark its 80th anniversary in 2025, the institution reaffirmed its commitment to advancing science and industrialisation in South Africa.
As part of the recent #PresidentialCSIRVisit, President Cyril Ramaphosa went to the Cannabis Facility, which has incubated 23 SMMEs to develop and market high-quality, regulatory-compliant, safe, efficacious and affordable #cannabis products for local and international markets.… pic.twitter.com/AS9NPEb52Z
— DEPARTMENT OF SCIENCE,TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION (@dstigovza) April 9, 2025
