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 the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) in Nairobi.

A family representative stated that the "11th Hour" hitmaker was admitted to KNH on Friday, November 7, after being transferred from AAR Hospital along Kiambu Road due to complications from the illness, including excessive bleeding. Her ex-husband, Pastor Victor Kanyari, with whom she had two children, was among the first to confirm the news publicly. Her body was later moved to the Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital Mortuary.

A Private Battle, A Public Grief

According to medical professionals involved in her care, Bayo was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) at an advanced stage. Dr. Nderitu Wangui, speaking on Thursday, November 13, detailed the severity of her condition, explaining that the disease had led to bone marrow failure. Close friends revealed that Bayo had wished to keep her health struggles private, fearing public scrutiny. Her final social media post on Sunday, November 9, was a Bible verse: “I can do all things through Jesus Christ who strengthens me.”

The news of her death has elicited an outpouring of tributes from across Kenya. Fellow gospel artists, public figures, and fans have celebrated her as a gifted and inspirational figure whose music touched countless lives. Musician Daddy Owen described her as "a true vessel of God whose voice and ministry touched countless lives." Former President Uhuru Kenyatta offered his condolences and donated KSh 1 million towards the funeral arrangements, mourning Bayo as an "extraordinary minister of the gospel."

Memorial and Tributes

A memorial service was held on Sunday, November 16, at the Christian Foundation Fellowship (CFF) Church on Kiambu Road, where Bayo was a worshipper. The service was marked by emotional tributes from family and friends. Her mother, Joyce Mbugua, remembered her as a devoted Christian from a young age. Heartbreaking tributes were also delivered by her children, Sky and Danny. Her brother, Charles Gatimu, eulogised her, stating, "To many, you were a gifted gospel musician and a voice of hope, but to us, you were our vibrant, jovial, and loving lastborn sister."

Bayo's journey from humble beginnings in Banana, Kiambu County, to national stardom was a source of inspiration for many. After dropping out of school in Form Two due to financial difficulties and working as a househelp, she resumed her education and launched a music career that would shape the Kenyan gospel scene. Her music, particularly hits like "11th Hour" and "Siyabonga," resonated deeply with audiences for its messages of hope and faith.

Legacy and Future Arrangements

In a move to secure her children's future, fellow gospel singer Shiru Wa GP announced on Saturday, November 15, that an ambassadorial contract Bayo held with Virtuous Explorers would continue, with the benefits directed to her children. This ensures her legacy provides for her family even after her passing.

The family has announced that Betty Bayo will be laid to rest on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at Mugumo Estate on Kiambu Road, a property she owned. The funeral is estimated to cost KSh 3 million, with friends, family, and the wider community contributing to the send-off.