George Weah
George Weah: A Football Legend and Liberian President
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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George Manneh Oppong Ousman Weah is commonly known as "The Lion of Liberia". He was born on October 1, 1966.
Birth and Death Dates
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Born: October 1, 1966
Still alive
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Weah holds Liberian nationality and is a former professional footballer who played as a striker. He is also a politician and served as the President of Liberia from 2018 to 2023.
Early Life and Background
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George Weah was born in the Monrovia suburb of New Kru Town, Liberia. His parents were both Muslim immigrants from the Mandinka ethnic group in Guinea. Weah's early life was marked by hardship, as his father abandoned the family when he was a young boy. He began playing football at the age of 10 and quickly became known for his exceptional skill and speed.
Weah attended St. Peter's Lutheran School in Monrovia but dropped out to pursue a career in football. In 1985, he joined a local club called Invincible Eleven, where he gained attention from bigger teams. The following year, Weah moved to Cameroon to join Tonnerre Yaoundé, and later played for Paris Saint-Germain in France.
Major Accomplishments
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Weah's football career spans over two decades, during which he won numerous titles and individual awards. Some of his most notable achievements include:
Winner of the European Cup Winners' Cup (1996)
UEFA Super Cup winner (1996)
Ligue 1 top scorer (1995)
FIFA World Player of the Year runner-up (1995)
Weah's success on the pitch earned him international recognition, and he became one of Africa's greatest players. In addition to his football career, Weah has also worked as a humanitarian and philanthropist.
Notable Works or Actions
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Weah has been involved in various charitable endeavors throughout his life. In 2004, he founded the George Weah Foundation, which focuses on education, healthcare, and economic empowerment for Liberian youth. He has also supported several initiatives aimed at promoting peace and reconciliation in post-conflict Liberia.
Impact and Legacy
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Weah's impact extends beyond his football career and philanthropic efforts. As a politician, he has been instrumental in shaping the future of Liberia. In 2017, he announced his candidacy for the Liberian presidency and won the election with over 50% of the vote. His inauguration marked a new era of hope and optimism for the country.
Weah's legacy is complex and multifaceted. As a footballer, he inspired generations of African players and fans. As a politician, he has worked to rebuild his nation and provide opportunities for its people.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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George Weah is widely quoted and remembered for his inspiring life story, which serves as a testament to the power of determination and perseverance. His transition from a humble footballer to a respected statesman has made him an icon in Liberian history.
Quotes by George Weah
I don't want my title to define my character. I don't think, as a president, I will change.
The roads for connectivity are vital. We have partners and we have revenue that we will make sure will come in to build our roads.
I want for us to be self-sustained so we can export. The government has a responsibility to have agricultural programs so people are able to grow their own food.
Of course I would have liked to have played at the World Cup, but I achieved so much in my career as a footballer that I can't have any complaints.
The whole thing about elections in Liberia – it’s not about the way you take care of people, it’s not about the heart, it’s about education, according to the perception of some people.
I can see in your eyes, I can see in your faces, I can see you cry. But what I want to say, there’s no reason to cry. Do not, in the name of peace, go in the streets and riot.
I have proven to the world that I am articulate, I am very intelligent, I’m well exposed.
In America there is a public library in every community. How many public libraries are there in Africa? Every day there are new books coming out and new ideas being discussed. But these new books and ideas don’t reach Africa and we are being left behind.
If I say I am not a politician, it is because I did not go to school to do political science. But at the end of the day, I think we are all born politicians. It’s practical. All you gotta do is practice.
