Liberia, a small nation on the West African coast, has found itself in the international spotlight following a recent diplomatic exchange that drew both amusement and frustration across the globe. The country, with a population of around 5.5 million, is often discussed in UK news for its unique history, its ties to the United States, and its ongoing efforts to build a stable democracy. This week, Liberia became the focus of viral headlines after former US President Donald Trump praised Liberian President Joseph Boakai’s “beautiful English,” seemingly unaware that English is the country’s official language.
Trump’s Comment and Its Reception
During a high-profile White House meeting with several West African leaders, Donald Trump singled out President Boakai for his eloquent English. Trump’s question—“Where did you learn to speak so beautifully?”—was met with polite laughter from Boakai, who confirmed that he was educated in Liberia. The exchange, captured on video, quickly went viral. Social media users and commentators in both the UK and Liberia highlighted the irony, noting that English has been Liberia’s official language since its founding in the 19th century.
Many Liberians expressed frustration and bemusement at the remark. Some viewed it as a reflection of Western ignorance about African nations, while others saw it as a missed opportunity to focus on more substantive issues, such as trade, investment, and development. The incident has sparked renewed interest in Liberia’s history, culture, and its longstanding relationship with the English language.
Liberia’s Unique History
Liberia’s story is unlike that of any other African country. In the early 19th century, the American Colonization Society established Liberia as a settlement for freed and free-born African Americans. Between 1822 and 1861, more than 15,000 African Americans and several thousand Afro-Caribbeans relocated to Liberia. The settlers, known as Americo-Liberians, brought with them American customs, governance structures, and, crucially, the English language.
Liberia declared independence in 1847, becoming Africa’s first republic governed by people of African descent. The country’s constitution, legal framework, and official communications have always been in English, setting Liberia apart from its francophone and lusophone neighbours.
English in Liberia
English is not just the language of government in Liberia; it is the lingua franca that connects the country’s diverse ethnic groups. While more than 20 indigenous languages are spoken across Liberia, English is used in schools, courts, and the media. Most Liberians speak a form of Liberian English, a creolised dialect that reflects influences from both American English and local languages.
This linguistic landscape is a direct result of Liberia’s founding and its enduring ties to the United States. It also explains why President Boakai’s English proficiency should come as no surprise to anyone familiar with the country’s history.
Modern Liberia
Beyond the headlines, Liberia faces a range of challenges and opportunities. The country has worked hard to maintain peace and stability since the end of its devastating civil wars in 2003. President Boakai, who took office in 2024, has focused on economic reform, anti-corruption measures, and improving public services. In July 2025, Boakai made headlines by cutting his own salary by 40% to show solidarity with ordinary Liberians struggling with the rising cost of living.
Liberia’s economy is heavily dependent on exports of rubber, iron ore, and gold. The government is also working to attract foreign investment, particularly from the UK and the US. Recent reports highlight a $6.8 million revenue shortfall in the first quarter of 2025, prompting the government to seek new loans and implement reforms to boost domestic revenue. The World Bank’s latest Country Partnership Framework for Liberia aims to create more jobs, improve education, and increase access to energy, all crucial for the country’s long-term development.
Liberia’s Relationship with the UK
The UK has played a significant role in Liberia’s development, providing aid, investment, and diplomatic support. British charities and NGOs are active in Liberia, working on projects ranging from health care to education and environmental protection. The UK government has also supported Liberia’s efforts to combat corruption and strengthen democratic institutions.
In recent years, Liberia has sought to deepen its trade ties with the UK, especially in the wake of Brexit. The country’s mineral wealth and growing agricultural sector offer opportunities for British investors, while Liberians look to the UK as a model for good governance and economic resilience.
The Importance of Language in Global Perceptions
The Trump-Boakai exchange has reignited debate about how Africa is perceived in the West. For many Liberians and Africans more broadly, the incident was a reminder of the stereotypes and misconceptions that persist about the continent. Language, in particular, is often used as a marker of “civilisation” or “competence,” reflecting colonial-era attitudes that still shape international relations.
Experts point out that such remarks, even if intended as compliments, can come across as patronising or dismissive. As Abraham Julian Wennah, a Liberian academic, noted, “In colonial times, language was weaponised to challenge legitimacy and competence.” Today, Liberians are proud of their linguistic heritage and their ability to engage confidently on the world stage.
