Renowned Kenyan gospel artist Betty Bayo has passed away at Kenyatta National Hospital. She reportedly died at 1:03 p.m. on Monday, 10 November 2025, after battling leukaemia and suffering from excessive bleeding.
Only yesterday at 8:30 a.m., Bayo shared an uplifting message on her Facebook page:
“I can do all things through Jesus Christ who strengthens me.”
In a press conference, Murang’a Women Representative Betty Maina announced the artist’s passing, describing Bayo as “a talented and inspirational gospel artist whose music touched countless lives.”
Bayo rose to prominence with her hit song “Eleventh Hour”, a track that resonated widely with its powerful message of hope and divine intervention. The song became an anthem in churches and gospel platforms across Kenya, solidifying her place among the nation’s influential gospel voices.
Tributes have poured in from fellow artists and industry stakeholders, who described her as humble, gifted and inspirational. One condolence message read:
“She leaves behind a strong legacy of spiritual encouragement and exceptional contribution to the gospel music industry.”
Beyond music, Bayo made a remarkable impact on Kenya’s entertainment scene, influencing content creation, fashion and lifestyle. Her passing has been deeply mourned by fans, colleagues and ministry partners who admired her unwavering faith despite her illness.
Her ex-partner, Victor Mwangi Kanyari — with whom she had two children — confirmed her passing. His team was at Kenyatta National Hospital where the late artist had been receiving treatment. In a social-media post he 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 give, in every little habit that reminds me of you. We had our moments, 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.”
Several industry friends, including renowned Benson Gathungu Kamau (Bishop) have since taken to social media to mourn the artist. According to the Bishop, Bayo was engaged in a fight with blood cancer (leukaemia) at an advanced stage.
“Living a life of praising God and business, the mother of two has been a jovial artist until lately when she was diagnosed with blood cancer (leukaemia) at an advanced stage,” he revealed.
“She leaves behind a legacy of great contribution to the growth of the gospel music industry, friendship, and a soul that maximised its full potential. She has rested after serving.… Cancer will also die one day.”
According to news anchor Wakarura Wa Nyutu (Inooro TV), the two were together as recently as Monday, 3 November.
“Last Monday I was at your place. We stayed until almost midnight; we laughed, we talked, and I truly hoped you would be well. And now you’re no more,” she shared.
Signs that her health had turned for the worse emerged in August 2025, when Bayo was admitted to hospital and posted an image of herself wearing an oxygen mask. At the time, she stated that the cold weather had taken a toll, although she did not disclose the details of her cancer battle.
In the wake of her passing, the Kenyan gospel community and broader entertainment industry have gone into mourning. As fans remember the upbeat voice and enduring message behind her music, a lasting question remains — who will carry the torch of the hope she personified?
Notable Career Snapshot – Betty Bayo
- Stage name: Betty Bayo.
- Known for singing in her native Agikuyu tongue and blending gospel message with contemporary rhythms.
- Married in December 2021 to Hiram “Tash” Gitau; previously had children with Pastor Victor Kanyari.
