On October 2, 2026, former Liberian President George Weah celebrated his 60th birthday in a unique way, hosting a market day for roadside cassava and coconut vendors at his Jamaica Resort in Paynesville. The event was attended by the vendors, who brought their cookpots and charcoal, and was marked by laughter and music. Weah, who was born on October 1, 1966, shared his birthday with Nigeria, which was celebrating its Independence Day.
The vendors, who normally earn a living by selling roasted cassava and coconut on the streets, were treated to a special day at the resort. Weah's gesture was aimed at helping the hardworking but low-paid women, who often go home with only $5 or $10 after a long day of work. The former President promised that whatever the vendors earned that day, he would multiply it by five, giving them an incentive to sell as much as they could.
The food being sold at the event was a familiar favorite, known as Tanpo-soglo, which is a staple in many Liberian households. The dish, made from roasted cassava and coconut, is a comfort food that evokes nostalgia for many who grew up in poverty. Weah, who grew up in difficult circumstances, has often spoken about his humble beginnings and has used his platform to help those in need.
According to Weah, the idea for the event came from complaints he received from the vendors themselves, who were struggling to make ends meet. He decided to use his birthday as an opportunity to help them, inviting them to the resort and promising to multiply their earnings. The event was seen as a way for Weah to give back to his community and to use his influence to make a positive impact.
The celebration was attended by people from all walks of life, including big men in fine suits and agbada, and small people in slippers. The event was marked by a sense of camaraderie and equality, as people from different backgrounds came together to enjoy the food and company. Weah's decision to host the vendors at his resort was seen as a way to bridge the gap between the rich and the poor.
Weah's background and rise to success are well-known, having grown up in poverty and gone on to become a successful footballer and politician. He has often spoken about the difficulties he faced growing up and has used his platform to help others who are facing similar challenges. The event was seen as a way for him to connect with his roots and to give back to his community.
The event was a success, with many of the vendors going home with $50, a significant amount for those who normally earn only $10 a day. Weah's gesture was seen as a way to bring joy and prosperity to those who need it most, and it was widely reported and celebrated in Liberia.
Key points
- Former Liberian President George Weah celebrated his 60th birthday by hosting roadside vendors at his resort and promising to multiply their earnings.
- The event was aimed at helping hardworking but low-paid women who often struggle to make ends meet.
- Weah's gesture was seen as a way to give back to his community and to use his influence to make a positive impact.
