French Montana was named a Global Citizen ambassador at a New York City ceremony Friday night, TMZ reports. French, who is the first rapper to earn the title, has done so through his charity work in Uganda over the last year. After filming the video for his Swae Lee-assisted single, "Unforgettable," in Kampala, French helped launch Global Citizen's #2BSTRONG petition, which asks leaders of African countries to ensure mothers and children are given the healthcare they require during childbirth and early childhood.
"I feel like every mother and child deserves the same care, whether they’re from [the U.S.] or back home in the motherland. It made my heart heavy," French told Newsweek of his first trip to Uganda last May. "I said that when I got back I’d do everything I can to help these mothers."
Montana donated $100,000 out of his own pocket to the Suubi Health Center in Budondo, Uganda. It goes towards purchasing the necessary equipment to assist mothers during childbirth. The Weeknd, Diddy, and Diddy's Ciroc Vodka venture have all matched French's donation. Diddy shared a video announcing his donation on YouTube just last week. It should assist at least 260,000 people, according to Global Citizen.
Contributions can be made to the maternity clinic expansion on this donation page for Mama Hope.
Last September, pop singer Demi Lovato was named a Global Citizen Ambassador for her work in destigmatizing mental health and supporting displaced children in Iraq.