(Cedella Marley, Rita Marley and Rohan Marley. Image via Privateer Holdings.)

While Reggae legend Bob Marley once referred to cannabis as “sacred,” the herb is still illegal in most of the world, with few countries slowly making legislative changes to decriminalize it. Marijuana is big business where it is sold legally, with legal sales projected to reach 10 billion dollars worldwide by 2018. Aficionados of the drug closely identify Marley with marijuana, posters, t-shirts and other images of his likeness are displayed and sold in cannabis related businesses all over the world.

The family of Bob Marley, namely his widow Rita Marley, his children and grandchildren, have chosen to celebrate his legacy with a global marijuana brand. The Marley family has partnered with Seattle-based private equity firm Privateer Holdings to launch Marley Natural, a global brand, which will sell cannabis-infused lotions, creams, and other accessories.

“Marley Natural is a brand with deep roots in the life and legacy of our father, Bob Marley,” said Cedella Marley in a statement.

The brand will most likely be launching next year, initially in the United States, and then worldwide.