Windhoek — THE Director of the Cancer Association of Namibia (CAN) has called for the speedy implementation of the Tobacco Bill.

Speaking at the World No Tobacco day commemoration at Swakopmund on Friday, CAN's Kurt Johanneson said it would be wonderful to eat in a restaurant without somebody blowing smoke over your plate of food.

He said it would be great if the law could be implemented within the next year.

Minister Richard Kamwi of Health and Social Services, who delivered the keynote address, said the draft bill, which aims to reduce smoking and tobacco consumption, was close to completion.

"This law will ensure stronger tobacco control measures and will be geared to reduce the increasing use of tobacco in our country," Kamwi said.

Both the Minister and Johanneson welcomed the recent tax increase on tobacco products announced in the budget speech.

Kamwi called for a regular increase in excise duties on tobacco products, saying it had proven to be an excellent deterrent, especially for the youth and new smokers.

"I believe it is high time that those who choose to smoke realise that they are depriving themselves and their households and families of important income, which could go towards paying for the education of their children of for buying food," said the Minister.

He quoted a nationwide baseline survey conducted in 2002 on alcohol and drug abuse in the country that showed four out of 10 Namibians were smokers.

The CAN director said 1,5 million people died annually of lung cancer worldwide, and cigarettes were the major cause.

"We must curb this filthy and costly habit," he warned.

This year's No Tobacco Day theme focuses on health professionals.

The Minister called on all doctors, nurses, pharmacists, health inspectors, social workers and other health practitioners to become role models by promoting a tobacco-free culture.

He said they should introduce anti-smoking policies in their consulting rooms, hospitals and clinics, make public events smoke free, and prohibit the sale or promotion of tobacco products at their premises.

In addition, it was important for all these professionals to quit smoking themselves.

"Choose to be role models for your patients, clients, families and friends.

"Choose to live and stop smoking.

Let us develop a culture of smoke-free environments."

World No Tobacco Day will be celebrated in 168 countries today.