Cannabis in Mauritius is illegal; locally it is known as gandia.
Local cannabis varieties
A distinctive local cannabis variety known as Zamal is traditionally associated with both Mauritius and the neighboring island of Réunion. Zamal is considered a 100% sativa landrace, characterized by its long flowering period and exceptional resistance to tropical humidity. It has been cultivated for generations in remote rural areas, often used for spiritual, medicinal, and recreational purposes.
Although largely undocumented in academic literature, Zamal is well known among local growers and collectors in the Indian Ocean region. Its genetics are valued in breeding projects for their vigor, mold resistance, and energetic psychoactive effects.
History Cannabis was banned in the British colony of Mauritius in 1840:
Usage A 1974 report on addiction noted that cannabis was usually smoked in cigarette rolls or clay pipes. Other alternative was to mix them into cakes or sweets, or the beverage bhang. It was rarely sniffed as snuff because "it burns the nose".
Reform In February 1999, a rally was held calling for legalization of cannabis. The famed Mauritian musician Kaya performed, and publicly smoked cannabis at the event. He was detained by police, and four days later died in custody.
References
Further reading CANNABIS SATIVA ADDICTION IN MAURITIUS Dr. A. C. Raman.