Renowned Kenyan gospel artist Betty Bayo, born Beatrice Wairimu Mbugua, has died following a battle with leukaemia. The family confirmed she passed away at approximately 1:03 p.m. EAT on Monday, November 10, 2025, while receiving treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) in Nairobi.

A family representative, speaking to the media at KNH, disclosed that the singer had been admitted to the hospital on Friday, November 7, after being transferred from AAR Hospital on Kiambu Road. The cause of death was attributed to complications from acute leukaemia, which led to excessive bleeding. "The doctors did their best, but the will of God has prevailed," the spokesperson stated.

The news has sent shockwaves across Kenya's music industry and her extensive fanbase, particularly as her social media pages had remained active just days before her passing. Her final Facebook post on Sunday, November 9, was a Bible verse: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

A Private Battle

According to close friends, including fellow artist Shiru wa GP, Bayo had wished for her health struggles to remain private. She was reportedly concerned about public scrutiny during her most vulnerable moments. Shiru revealed that friends had been raising funds privately to cover her medical expenses after she was initially admitted to hospital in October. Her condition deteriorated rapidly, leading to her transfer to KNH where she was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia.

Her ex-husband, Pastor Victor Kanyari, with whom she had two children, was among the first to confirm the news publicly. In a social media post, he wrote, "It hurts in ways I can't explain... I'll carry your memory, your love, and your spirit forever. Rest easy… you'll always be missed."

Legacy of an '11th Hour' Faith

Betty Bayo rose to national prominence with her hit song “11th Hour,” which became an anthem of hope and perseverance for many Kenyans. Her music often drew from her personal life, which was marked by a humble upbringing in Kiambu County, early struggles, and a high-profile, and at times controversial, public life. Despite public challenges, she maintained a strong following and was respected for her candour and resilience.

Tributes have poured in from fellow artists, public figures, and fans. President William Ruto eulogized her as "an extraordinary gospel artiste whose voice... touched and transformed many lives." Many remembered her not just for her powerful vocals but for her inspirational journey and authenticity.

The family has announced that her body has been moved to the Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital Mortuary. Friends and colleagues have begun gathering daily at Blue Springs Hotel along Thika Road for prayers and funeral arrangements. A preliminary funeral budget has been estimated at KSh 5 million. The input regarding an interaction between Karangu Muraya and his ex-wife, Triza Njeri, during the mourning period has been noted in some reports, reflecting the communal nature of grief among public figures in the gospel industry.

Betty Bayo is survived by her husband, Hiram 'Tash' Gitau, and two children from her previous marriage.