French Montana first rapper to become Global Citizens Ambassador for work in Uganda

French Montana became the first rapper to be named a Global Citizens Ambassador on Friday night, a testament to The Bronx artist’s charity work in Uganda.

After a trip to Kampala, Uganda brought the poverty of the region into sharp focus, French has worked closely with the community, donating money to hospitals and healthcare for mothers during childbirth and early childhood.

Montana helped start Global Citizen’s #2BeStrong campaign, which calls on African leaders to focus on healthcare for mothers.

French was inspired to help after he took a trip to Kampala, Uganda, where he would end up shooting his “Unforgettable” video with Swae Lee.

He told Newsweek after first visiting Uganda:

“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. I said that when I got back I’d do everything I can to help these mothers.”

The BX rapper donated $100,000 to the Suubi Health Center in Budondo, Uganda. The money will go towards improving healthcare for mothers during childbirth. TMZ reports that several celebs and artists have matched his donation:

“His donation led to a chain reaction of others … The Weeknd, Diddy and Diddy’s Ciroc venture all matched his $100k and Global Citizen estimates some 260,000 people will benefit from the money raised.”

French Montana, who hails from the African country of Morocco, feels a deep connection to the continent.

He recently spoke to BET about hopefully being able to provide inspiration to young Africans,

“Honestly, me just emigrating from Morocco, coming from Africa and making my dreams come true, I just feel like a lot of people around the world feel like there’s hope when they see somebody like me.”

Big ups to French for putting in work where it matters most.