NAIROBI, KENYA – The Kenyan gospel music community and the nation at large are in mourning following the death of celebrated artist Beatrice Wairimu Mbugua, popularly known as Betty Bayo. The singer, famed for her inspirational hit song "11th Hour," passed away on Monday, November 10, 2025, at approximately 1:00 PM EAT while receiving treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) in Nairobi. A family representative confirmed she succumbed to complications from leukemia, a form of blood cancer she had been battling for several months.

President William Ruto led the tributes, describing Bayo as an "extraordinary gospel artiste whose voice carried hope into the hearts of countless Kenyans." In a statement released on Monday, the President noted Bayo's significant impact over a career spanning more than 15 years. "Her breakthrough hit, '11th Hour,' was a powerful anthem of divine turnaround that inspired the faithful and comforted many," President Ruto said. He added, "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."

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua also expressed his sorrow, calling the news "truly heartbreaking and devastating to me and the whole nation." In a message posted on the social media platform X, he lauded her contribution beyond music. "Her remarkable talent and contribution through beautifully crafted lyrics and charity work touched many souls and transformed lives," Gachagua stated.

A Battle Fought with Faith

According to family sources, Bayo's health condition had worsened in the days leading up to her death. Murang'a Woman Representative Betty Maina, speaking on behalf of the family at KNH, disclosed that the singer was first admitted to AAR Hospital on Kiambu Road before being transferred to KNH on Friday, November 7, due to excessive bleeding, a complication of the advanced-stage leukemia. Concerns about her health first became public in August 2025, when she posted an image of herself on social media wearing an oxygen mask, though she did not disclose the specifics of her illness at the time. Her final social media post on Sunday, November 9, was a Bible verse: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Legacy of an Influential Voice

Betty Bayo rose to national prominence with her song "11th Hour," which became an anthem of hope in churches and homes across Kenya. Her music was known for its encouraging and relatable lyrics, cementing her as one of the country's most influential gospel voices. Fellow artists and industry leaders have universally praised her humility, talent, and unwavering devotion to her ministry. Beyond her music, she was also recognized as a content creator and an influencer in fashion and lifestyle.

Bayo was a mother of two children from her previous marriage to Pastor Victor Kanyari, who also confirmed her passing and expressed his grief. She later remarried Hiram 'Tosh' Gitau in 2021. Following her death, her body was moved to the Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital Mortuary as the family begins funeral arrangements. Her passing leaves a profound legacy of faith, resilience, and a musical ministry that touched countless lives across the nation.