Celebrated Gospel Artist Betty Bayo./FILE
President William Ruto has led the country in mourning gospel sensation Betty Bayo, describing her as an “extraordinary gospel artiste” whose music carried hope and strength to millions of Kenyans.
In a deeply emotional tribute released hours after news of her death broke, the President said her ministry had uplifted countless people across the country.
“We mourn the passing of Beatrice Wairimu Mbugua, fondly known as Betty Bayo, an extraordinary gospel artiste whose voice carried hope into the hearts of countless Kenyans," Ruo said in a statement.
"Her breakthrough hit, ‘11th Hour,’ was a powerful anthem of divine turnaround that inspired the faithful and comforted many who sought strength, healing, and reassurance in gospel music."
"For over 15 years, Betty lifted spirits through music that spoke of resilience, renewal, and steadfast faith in the face of life’s challenges.
Her message was consistent, clear, and heartfelt: never give up, no matter the hour, no matter the storm.
"Her voice may have fallen silent, but her ministry lives on in every heart she touched, every soul she uplifted, and every life she helped steady in difficult moments. Rest in Peace, Betty Bayo,” President Ruto said.
Betty Bayo died on Monday, November 10, 2025, shortly after 1pm while receiving treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital.
According to her family, she had been unwell for about a week before being diagnosed with acute leukemia, a form of blood cancer that progressed rapidly. Doctors at KNH attempted to stabilise her, but she succumbed while still undergoing treatment.
Her death has triggered a nationwide wave of grief, with leaders, artistes and clergy describing her passing as a major loss to Kenya’s gospel music fraternity.
Nairobi Woman Rep Esther Passaris said It is with a heavy heart that she has have received the news of the passing of our beloved Kenyan gospel artist Betty Bayo at Kenyatta Hospital.
"My heartfelt prayers go out to her family, friends, and the entire Kenyan gospel fraternity during this difficult time. May her soul rest in eternal peace," Passaris said.
In the music industry, tributes poured in from top gospel figures.
Gospel musician Daddy Owen expressed deep sorrow on social media, writing, "RIP to one of our own, Betty Bayo, a true vessel of God whose voice and ministry touched countless lives. Her passion for the Gospel will never be forgotten. To her family, friends, and the entire Gospel fraternity, may God comfort and strengthen you."
Betty Bayo's ex-husband, Kanyari, wrote on his official social media,Kanyari wrote, "It hurts in ways I can’t explain. You left before I could say everything I needed to. I still see you in every laugh our children gives, in every little habit that reminds me of you. We had our moments both the fire and the calm, but through it all, you were family. I’ll carry your memory, your love, and your spirit forever. Rest easy… you’ll always be missed."
Betty Bayo rose to national fame in the early 2010s with her hit Eleventh Hour, a song that resonated widely for its message of hope during difficult times.
She went on to produce a string of hits including Gatho, Udahi, Thiiri, Ndîkerîria and Maneno.
Her unique ability to blend worship themes with everyday struggles — heartbreak, financial pressure, parenting and spiritual doubt—made her one of the most relatable gospel voices of her generation.
Born and raised in Banana, Kiambu County, Bayo often spoke about her modest upbringing as the last-born in a family of eight. She dropped out of school in Form Two due to financial challenges and worked as a househelp for two years before returning to school. These experiences shaped her music and her message, which often emphasised perseverance and faith.
As tributes continue across the country, Kenyans are remembering her not just as an artiste but as a beacon of resilience whose voice touched homes, churches and hearts nationwide. Her family is expected to announce burial arrangements in the coming day
