“Such Good English?” Why Trump’s Comment on Liberia’s President Got People Talking

Joseph Boakai’s moment at the White House sparks praise and debate across the globe

When Liberian President Joseph Boakai stepped up to the mic at the White House this week, few expected the global headlines that followed. But it wasn’t just his calm diplomacy or calls for investment that stirred conversation; it was a remark from United States President Donald Trump that struck a deeper nerve.

Boakai was part of a delegation of African leaders invited to Washington in July 2025. The three-day meeting, hosted by Trump, focused on resetting trade relations and easing tariff impacts on African exports. Leaders from Gabon, Senegal, Mauritania, Guinea-Bissau, and Liberia joined for talks and a working lunch. But when it came time for Boakai to speak, things took an unexpected turn.

“Where Did You Learn to Speak So Beautifully?”

After Boakai offered a composed message of gratitude and partnership, emphasising Liberia’s democratic track record, its mineral wealth, and the nation’s desire for deeper ties, Trump responded with what many online are calling a “backhanded compliment.”

“Well, thank you,” Trump said, “and such good English. Where did you learn to speak so beautifully?”

With a quiet laugh, Boakai replied, “I was educated in Liberia.”

Trump’s reaction? A surprised “In Liberia?” followed by a nod and, “That’s very interesting. That’s a beautiful language too. I have people at this table who can’t speak nearly as well.”

Cue the collective side-eye on social media.

A History Too Easily Forgotten

For those who don’t know, English is the official language of Liberia. The country, located on the West African coast, was founded in 1822 as a settlement for freed American slaves. It shares historical, political, and even symbolic ties with the United States. Liberia’s flag, for example, bears a strong resemblance to the American one, often dubbed the “Lone Star.”

So yes, English is not just spoken in Liberia; it’s deeply embedded in its national identity.

What Was Boakai Really Saying?

Beyond the viral moment, Boakai’s speech highlighted Liberia’s commitment to regional peace and economic growth. He urged the US to invest in Liberia’s natural resources and partner on matters of security and commercial development.

“We go a long way with you,” Boakai told Trump, “with your economic diplomacy that has to do with development and commercial friendship.”

His poised delivery stood out, even among the other African heads of state at the table.

Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, for instance, lightened the mood by complimenting Trump’s golf skills and inviting him to build a course in Senegal. “Perhaps an investment could be made in a golf course,” he joked, “It would be an opportunity for you to show off your skills.”

Trump laughed and complimented Faye in turn, referencing his youth and resilience after being jailed by the previous government, a nod to Faye’s remarkable journey from political prisoner in 2023 to Senegal’s youngest-ever elected president in 2024.

Social Media Reacts: “This Is Why Representation Matters”

Across Twitter, TikTok, and local news commentary, reactions were swift. South Africans joined in too, with many calling Trump’s remark “tone-deaf” and “microaggressive,” while others praised Boakai for his dignified, unshaken response.

One Johannesburg-based political analyst put it bluntly:

“What Trump said wasn’t surprising. What’s important is how Boakai responded. Calm. Grounded. That’s real leadership.”

Others pointed out the irony: a US president surprised that someone from an English-speaking African nation speaks… well, English.

The Bigger Picture: More Than a Soundbite

While headlines might centre on Trump’s surprise at Boakai’s fluency, the real story lies in the broader African message: investment must follow respect. These leaders didn’t travel across continents to be patronised, they came for economic partnership, mutual security, and regional peace.

Boakai reminded the world that Liberia is more than its history; it’s a modern African democracy with a voice, and that voice deserves to be heard without caveats or commentary.

Also read: R700 Million or Real Reform? Why South Africa’s National Dialogue Is Under Fire

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Source: IOL

Featured Image: allAfrica.com