Nairobi, Monday, November 10, 2025 — Popular gospel artist Beatrice Wairimu Mbugua, widely known as Betty Bayo, has passed away after a long battle with cancer.
According to her family, the celebrated musician died on Monday, November 10, while receiving treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital.
Pastor Kanyari Confirms Her Death
Her ex-partner, Pastor Victor Mwangi Kanyari, with whom she had two children, confirmed her passing through an emotional message shared on social media.
“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,” Kanyari wrote.
The pastor revealed that he and his team were heading to Kenyatta National Hospital at the time of the announcement.
Industry Mourns a Gospel Legend
Several public figures and members of the gospel fraternity have taken to social media to mourn the singer.
Among them is Bishop Benson Gathungu Kamau, who confirmed that the artist had been battling blood cancer (leukaemia) in its advanced stages.
“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,” Bishop Kamau shared.
He went on to praise her contribution to the Kenyan gospel music scene, describing her as a woman of faith whose influence will remain unmatched.
“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. My condolences to your mum, husband, siblings, friends, the music industry, and your beautiful children. Rest in Peace, Betty Bayo. Cancer will also die one day.”
Friends and Fans Share Tributes
Inooro TV news anchor Wakarura Wa Nyutu also shared a heartfelt tribute, revealing that she had spent time with Betty just a week before her passing.
“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 wrote.
The two were close friends, often seen supporting each other’s projects and attending industry events together.
The Rise of Betty Bayo
Betty Bayo rose to fame with her powerful hit song Eleventh Hour, which resonated deeply with gospel music lovers across Kenya for its message of hope and divine timing.
Her music, available on YouTube and streaming platforms like Spotify, inspired thousands with its uplifting lyrics and relatable message of faith during hardship.
She later released several other gospel hits that cemented her place among Kenya’s most loved female artists, including collaborations with top musicians in the industry.
According to Pulse Live Kenya, Betty was among the few gospel artists who balanced music, business, and family with grace and humility.
Health Struggles and Final Days
Signs of her deteriorating health first appeared in August 2025, when she shared a photo of herself in a hospital bed wearing an oxygen mask.
At the time, she said that the cold weather had affected her health, though she did not reveal the full extent of her illness.
Her last social media post, as reported by Tuko.co.ke, showed her thanking fans for their prayers and support as she continued her treatment.
Betty Bayo’s resilience and unwavering faith through her illness touched many hearts in the gospel community and beyond.
A Legacy of Faith and Hope
The late singer’s journey is a reminder of perseverance, courage, and deep faith in God, even in the face of adversity.
Her passing leaves a void in the Kenyan gospel industry, where she had become an inspiration for upcoming artists.
Funeral and memorial details will be announced later by her family.
