Ruto, Gachagua lead Kenyans in mourning Betty Bayo

By Newsflash Team

President William Ruto has led Kenyans in mourning the untimely death of celebrated Kikuyu gospel musician Betty Bayo, who passed away on Monday, November 10, 2025, while receiving treatment at the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH).

The family confirmed that the “11th Hour” hitmaker succumbed to complications arising from leukemia, a type of blood cancer.

President Ruto described the late artist, whose real name was Beatrice Wairimu Mbugua, as an “extraordinary gospel artiste” whose music brought hope and strength to countless Kenyans.

“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,” said President Ruto.

He hailed her chart-topping hit “11th Hour” as a powerful anthem of divine turnaround that inspired faith and resilience among her fans.

“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,” Ruto added.

The Head of State said Bayo’s passing was a monumental loss to Kenya’s creative industry and the gospel community, noting that her legacy would continue to live on through her timeless music and the countless lives she touched.

“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,” the President concluded.

Gachagua, Ichung’wa pay emotional tribute

Former Deputy President and Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua described Bayo’s passing as “truly heartbreaking,” noting that her music and humanitarian efforts left a lasting mark on the nation.

“The news of Gospel Musician Betty Bayo’s passing on is truly heartbreaking and devastating to me and the whole nation. Her remarkable talent and contribution through beautifully crafted lyrics and charity work touched many souls and transformed lives,” said Gachagua.

He extended condolences to her family, describing her as a shining example of humility and faith.

“I join our fellow countrymen and women, as well as the entire creative industry, in mourning the loss of a legend. My heart goes out to her family during this difficult time; please accept my deepest condolences. May the Almighty God grant you strength in this challenging moment, and may Betty Bayo’s soul rest in eternal peace,” he added.

National Assembly Majority Leader and Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wa also mourned the late singer, describing her as a gifted voice that ministered to a generation.

“We join the gospel fraternity, family, friends, and fans across the country in mourning the untimely passing of Beatrice Wairimu Mbugua, popularly known as Betty Bayo — a gifted artist whose voice uplifted souls and inspired faith and hope in countless hearts,” Ichung’wa said.

He praised her humility and strength, saying her journey from humble beginnings to national recognition was a true testament to perseverance.

“Her humility, authenticity, and resilience, from her early struggles to her rise as one of Kenya’s most beloved gospel voices, remain a testimony of strength and purpose,” he added.

Ichung’wa revealed that Mt. Kenya musicians had been planning a fundraiser to help clear her mounting medical bills before her sudden demise.

Family speaks on final moments

A family spokesperson revealed that Bayo had been receiving specialized treatment for leukemia at KNH and had spent most of November admitted in hospital as her condition worsened.

“We want to tell the public that today at 1:03 p.m., we lost Betty Bayo. It is no longer a rumour; it is the truth,” the family spokesperson told journalists.

The statement disclosed that Bayo was diagnosed with acute mild leukemia, a severe form of blood cancer that caused excessive internal bleeding. Despite the efforts of doctors to stabilize her, her condition deteriorated rapidly.

“Betty has been unwell since last week. She was diagnosed with acute mild cancer — leukemia. Betty was transferred to KNH on Friday, as she was suffering from excessive bleeding. The doctors tried their best, but the will of God has prevailed,” the statement read.

Sources close to the family confirmed that doctors at KNH fought tirelessly to save her life, but the illness advanced too quickly.

At the hospital during the family’s announcement was Pastor Victor Kanyari, Bayo’s ex-husband and father of her two children. Witnesses described him as visibly shaken as family members, friends, and fellow gospel musicians gathered to mourn the beloved artist.