Government leaders have a key role to play in leading a diverse economy towards alleviation of poverty. Throughout the years cannabis has contributed to improved livelihoods for several years even with strong legislative policies that prevented its cultivation (Nkosi, 2021). In efforts to grow its economy, South Africa has joined many countries in changing its legislative policies to allow for legalization of hemp and cannabis under certain conditions. This chapter provides an analysis of the lessons that can be learnt by South African government leaders from the cannabis industry and their role in advancements within the cannabis industry of South Africa.