Trump’s Remark Sparks Controversy at White House African Leaders Summit
Liberia official language is English, Boakai told Trump after being praised for speaking it “so beautifully” on July 9, 2025.
The exchange drew immediate backlash across African social media, with many accusing Trump of ignorance and condescension.
Liberia’s Legacy and Its Language Associated with America
In an effort to move freed African Americans to West Africa, the American Colonization Society founded Liberia in 1822. In 1847, the nation proclaimed its independence. As a result, academics and local specialists are well aware that English is Liberia’s official language.
Nevertheless, Trump’s remark has reignited long-standing disputes about how Western powers see African countries.
Criticism From Africans and Liberians Alike
Many Africans and Liberians viewed the comment as condescending.
“I felt insulted because our country is an English-speaking country,” said Archie Tamel Harris, a youth advocate in Liberia.
“They [still] see Africans as people in villages who are not educated,” he added.
A Liberian diplomat, speaking anonymously, said the comment was “not appropriate” and “a bit condescending to an African president from an English-speaking nation.”
South African politician Veronica Mente asked on X:
“What stops [Boakai] from standing up and leaving?”
White House Pushes Back, Liberia Responds Calmly
In response, White House officials defended Trump’s remarks. Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly said it was a “heartfelt compliment,” and adviser Massad Boulos said, “Africa has never had such a friend in the White House.”
Liberian Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti downplayed the controversy:
“What President Trump heard distinctly was the American influence on our English… The Liberian president is not offended.”
She emphasized the shared linguistic heritage between Liberia and the United States, noting that English across Africa has many dialects and influences.
Trump’s History With Language Comments
Trump has made similar remarks in the past. He once asked German Chancellor Friedrich Merz if his English was as good as Trump’s German. In March, Trump signed an executive order designating English as the official language of the U.S., aligning with his long-held nationalist views.
However, this latest comment struck a nerve due to Trump’s past controversial remarks about African countries, including his infamous 2018 “shithole countries” comment.
African Leaders Still Courting U.S. Investment
Despite the controversy, the five visiting African leaders—from Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania, and Senegal—praised Trump and urged deeper U.S. engagement.
President Boakai even remarked that Liberia “believes in the policy of making America great again.”
Trump concluded the summit by commending the continent’s “vibrant places with valuable land, great minerals, and wonderful people.”
Source: CNN
