Tanzanian Bongo Flava star Juma Jux trended on social media after a minor English slip during his acceptance speech at the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) in Lagos, Nigeria.
Jux, one of Tanzania’s most successful music exports, was representing East Africa at the prestigious ceremony, where he thanked God, his fans and his family.
However, his phrase, “I wanna thanks God, I wanna thanks my fans, I wanna thanks my family” quickly caught the attention of language enthusiasts online.
The moment sparked debate, with some users pointing out that “thanks” is a noun rather than a verb, noting that the correct expression would be “I wanna thank God.”
Others were quick to defend the singer, arguing that English is not his first language and that his achievement on a continental stage mattered more than grammar.
Language commentator Hopetygatz weighed in on Instagram, explaining in Swahili that thanks is used as a noun, such as in “thanks for your support,” while thank is the correct verb when expressing gratitude.
Despite the grammar discussion, many fans rallied behind Jux, urging critics to focus on his music and international success.
Instagram user Christinachukwugozie wrote, “Biggest Jux, congratulations.
Keep winning while your haters keep analysing nonsense,” while another user, Mmesomaonyinyeokoye, added, “We love him that way and we will keep supporting him.”
Juma Jux has yet to publicly address the debate.