Timothy Bentum criticises actors for ignoring drug abuse advocacy

Timothy Bentum, a prominent media personality and the Lead Pastor of Grace Avenue Ministry, has expressed significant disappointment with the Ghanaian movie industry's response to his drug abuse advocacy campaign. Speaking on Joy Prime’s "Changes" show, Bentum revealed that his efforts to mobilize industry colleagues for a campaign aimed at educating the youth on the dangers of substance abuse were largely met with silence. He noted that despite the high visibility of many entertainers, very few showed any interest in using their influence to address this pressing social challenge. The advocacy campaign was designed to leverage the reach of famous personalities to create awareness, but Bentum found the lack of participation discouraging. He specifically mentioned reaching out to actress Gloria Sarfo to help coordinate mobilization efforts, yet the response from the wider acting community remained minimal. According to Bentum, this lack of engagement suggests a troubling trend where industry players prioritize personal fame and career advancement over the social responsibility that comes with their public status. In an effort to encourage more participation, Bentum stated that he is open to signing Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) for individuals who might be hesitant to get involved due to privacy concerns or personal histories. He emphasized that the goal is not to expose anyone but to build a united front to protect the next generation from the scourge of drug addiction. He urged his colleagues to recognize the weight of their influence and the necessity of collaboration when it comes to meaningful social causes. Bentum concluded by highlighting the critical role celebrities play in shaping the attitudes of the youth. He argued that the fight against drug abuse requires a collective effort from all sectors of society, especially from those who serve as role models. His remarks serve as a call to action for the Ghanaian entertainment industry to move beyond self-promotion and actively contribute to national development through social advocacy and youth empowerment.