8 non-European, non-American countries where English is an official language

During a recent meeting at the White House, US President Donald Trump appeared visibly impressed when Liberian President Joseph Boakai spoke in fluent English. He said, “ “Liberia is a longtime friend of the United States and we believe in your policy of making America great again. We just want to thank you so much for this opportunity.”
“Where did you learn to speak so beautifully?” Donald Trump asked, only to be told that English is Liberia’s official language. It made for a headline-worthy moment, but also spotlighted something many still find surprising, which is that English as a language is spoken far beyond the UK, the US, or Australia, and in some cases, it’s the official language of nations that aren’t European or American.

Here is a list of ten non-European, non-American nations having official English status, each with a distinct history and culture, in case you were wondering.

Official Language: English

Starting the list with Liberia, which is now in the spotlight because of the language. Well, it was founded in the early 1800s by freed African-American slaves, and was modeled, politically and linguistically, after the United States. As a result, English naturally became the official language, which is used in governance, education, and media.

Official Language: English

Home to over 500 indigenous languages, Nigeria needed a neutral linguistic bridge—and English fit the bill. Introduced during British colonisation, it became the language of instruction in schools, the medium in courts, and the voice of governance. But Nigeria didn’t just adopt English; it made it its own. Nigerian English, laced with local idioms and Pidgin, now thrives as a vibrant, evolving dialect.

Official Language: English (alongside Filipino)

English has been part of the Philippines’ linguistic DNA since the 19th century, when American forces took control and left behind more than just military footprints. As a former US colony, the country adopted English—and ran with it. Today, it’s the language that is spoken in boardrooms, courtrooms, classrooms, and even prime-time TV. You’ll get to hear English spoken here with ease, and confidence.

Official Language: English (and Swahili)

Kenya, like many African nations, inherited English through its colonial history. Today, it plays a central role, as the language of education, government, and everyday conversation in cities. While Swahili roots people in cultural identity, English connects them to the wider world.

Official Language: English (and Malay, Mandarin, Tamil)

A city-state with four official languages, Singapore uses English as the main working language. English is the medium of instruction in schools and the common tongue across its multicultural population. “Singlish” (Singaporean English) is a quirky local version you’ll hear on the streets.

Official Language: English (with Kinyarwanda, French, and Swahili)

Rwanda switched from French to English as the primary language of instruction in 2008. Why? Political realignment after the genocide and a growing focus on East African and global engagement. The change has been significant, especially in education and diplomacy.

Official Language: English (among 11!) ​

English is widely used in commerce, politics, and the media, despite the fact that South Africa has eleven official languages. It serves as a common language among a very different group of people. English will always be at the forefront, whether you're discussing court proceedings or cricket commentary.

Official Language: English (and Swahili)

English was introduced to Uganda during its colonial past, but the country's present educational system, legal framework, and administrative apparatus have cemented the language's position in society. English is used everywhere, from street signs to parliamentary discussions.

Official Language: English (alongside Fijian and Hindi) ​

Fiji may be miles away from Africa and Asia, but it’s also a place where English left its mark post-British rule. Today, English is the language that is spoken largely in this island nation's diverse communities, from indigenous Fijians to Indo-Fijians. It’s the language of board meetings, classrooms, and officialdom, making daily life (and diplomacy) run a lot smoother.