By Abiola Olawale
A recent exchange at the White House between United States President Donald Trump and Liberian President Joseph Boakai has ignited massive reactions on social media.
During a luncheon with leaders from several African nations, Trump complimented Boakai on his English proficiency, asking, “Where did you learn to speak so beautifully?”
The incident occurred during a diplomatic initiative where Trump hosted presidents from Liberia, Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania, and Senegal.
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss shifting US policy towards Africa from traditional aid to a focus on trade, aiming to enhance commercial opportunities and counterbalance China’s growing influence on the continent.
However, the exchange between Trump and his guest, the President of Liberia, has somewhat overshadowed the meeting, as many people wondered why Trump overlooked the fact that English is the official language of Liberia.
Critics argue that Trump’s comments might not be in tune with Liberia’s history and current realities.
The New Diplomat reports that Liberia, founded in 1822 by freed Black Americans under the auspices of the American Colonization Society, declared its independence in 1847.
English has been the official language of Liberia since its inception.
