During a White House luncheon with African leaders on Wednesday, US President Donald Trump complimented Liberian President Joseph Boakai on his English-speaking ability — seemingly unaware that English is the official language of Liberia.
After Boakai’s brief remarks at the event, Trump said:
“Thank you, and such good English… Where did you learn to speak so beautifully? Where were you educated?”
Boakai, a business graduate and native English speaker like most Liberians, responded that he had been educated in Liberia. His muted, brief reply hinted at discomfort, though his expression remained largely hidden from the media.
Despite the context, Trump pressed on, saying:
“It’s beautiful English. I have people at this table can’t speak nearly as well.”
Trump made the remark while seated among several Francophone West African leaders.
Liberia’s English Legacy
Liberia’s official language is English, a reflection of its unique history. The country was founded in the 19th century by freed African-Americans under the American Colonization Society, with the settlement declared independent in 1847. The new nation, led by Americo-Liberians, established English as its lingua franca — a status it retains to this day.
President Boakai, like many Liberians, also speaks indigenous languages such as Mendi and Kissi, but English remains his primary language for official and daily communication.
Context and Reactions
The exchange, though possibly meant as a compliment, echoed past criticisms of Trump’s tone toward African nations. It sparked renewed debate online about assumptions in cross-cultural diplomacy and the importance of cultural literacy.
Observers noted that while English proficiency varies across Africa, Liberia — unlike most of its neighbours — has English as its sole official language.