The gospel music community is in mourning following the death of celebrated Kikuyu gospel singer Beatrice Wairimu Mbugua, popularly known as Betty Bayo. She passed away on Monday, November 10, 2025, at Kenyatta National Hospital’s private wing, ending days of uncertainty surrounding her health.
A family representative, speaking on behalf of her husband Hiram Gitau, confirmed that Betty had been battling acute leukaemia and excessive bleeding since last week. She was initially admitted to AAR Hospital on Kiambu Road before being transferred to Kenyatta National Hospital on Friday, November 7, 2025.
“Today at 1:03 pm, we have lost Betty. She had been unwell since last week, suffering from acute leukaemia and excessive bleeding. The doctors did their best, but the will of God has been fulfilled. Arrangements are underway to move her body to Kenyatta University Referral Hospital, and all further communications regarding the funeral and memorials will be shared in due course,” the representative said.
Present at the announcement were her husband Hiram Gitau, ex-husband Pastor Victor Kanyari, family members, and close friends.
Tributes from the Gospel Community
Confirming the loss, Bishop Ben Kiengei, head pastor at JCM and a close friend of Betty Bayo, paid tribute to her life and career. He highlighted that Betty rose to prominence with her hit song “Eleventh Hour,” celebrated for its uplifting and encouraging message.
“Beatrice Wairimu Mbugua, famously known as Betty Bayo, rose to prominence after releasing her hit song Eleventh Hour. She lived a life devoted to praising God and serving her community, remaining a joyful artist until her diagnosis with blood cancer (leukaemia) at an advanced stage,” Bishop Kiengei wrote on Facebook.
Bishop Kiengei described Betty Bayo as an artist who maximized her potential, inspiring many through her music and ministry. He also noted her courage and unwavering faith in facing illness, emphasising that she remained committed to God’s service until her final days.
“She leaves behind a legacy of remarkable contributions to the gospel music industry, friendships, and mentorship. My condolences go to her mother, husband, siblings, friends, the music industry, and her beautiful children. Rest in peace, Betty Bayo; cancer will also die one day,” he added.
Betty Bayo’s passing is a significant loss to Kenya’s gospel music scene, but her music and influence are expected to continue inspiring generations of artists.
