U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent comment praising Liberian President Joseph Boakai for speaking “such good English” sparked mixed reactions across Africa—including among Rwandans, who recalled similar moments from Trump’s past interactions with African leaders.

While the remark was directed at Boakai during a July 2025 summit with African presidents, many observers—including Rwandans—saw it as part of a pattern of condescending or tone-deaf compliments Trump has made toward African dignitaries.

Some Rwandans took to social media to express discomfort, noting that English is Liberia’s official language and that Boakai’s fluency should not be surprising. Others pointed out that Trump had previously praised Rwandan President Paul Kagame during a 2018 meeting, calling him a “friend” and commending Rwanda’s economic progress – but without making similar remarks about language.

Liberia’s Foreign Minister later clarified that Boakai was not offended, interpreting Trump’s comment as recognition of Liberia’s American-influenced English. Still, critics – including African policy experts – argued that such remarks reflect underlying biases and a lack of cultural awareness.

In Rwanda, where English is one of the official languages alongside Kinyarwanda and French, many citizens viewed the episode as a reminder of how Western leaders often misunderstand or underestimate African nations.