NAIROBI, Kenya — The Kenyan music industry is mourning the loss of celebrated gospel artist Betty Bayo, whose death was confirmed by her family Monday 10, November 2025 morning.
The renowned singer, whose real name is Beatrice Mbugua passed away at the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) after a battle with leukaemia.
The artist, widely known for her hit song “11th Hour,” had been receiving medical care for several days before her condition deteriorated.
According to a family representative, who addressed the media alongside Bayo’s ex-partner Pastor Victor Kanyari and other family members, the singer was transferred to KNH on Friday from AAR hospital along Kiambu Road.
The representative provided details on her final hours:
“She was suffering from excessive bleeding, the doctors tried to do their best, but the will of God has prevailed,” the representative said in the company of her ex-partner and family members.
In his official social media, Pastor Kanyari wrote, “RIP Mama Sky. The mother to my kids.”
Betty was married to Pastor Kanyari, but they later separated.
The family further confirmed that Betty Bayo’s body will be moved to the Kenyatta University Teaching and Referral Hospital Mortuary as funeral arrangements begin.
Her passing marks a significant loss to the Kenyan gospel community.
Betty Bayo: A look at the life and career of the gospel star
Betty Bayo was one of Kenya’s most recognizable and soulful gospel artists, known for her powerful vocals and poignant lyrics that resonated deeply with themes of resilience, faith, and hope.
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She leaves behind a significant musical legacy within the Kenyan gospel industry.
Musical highlights and discography
Betty Bayo’s career spanned over a decade, during which she established herself as a versatile artist, often blending African rhythms with contemporary Christian themes.
- Signature Hits: Her most famous and widely recognized song is “11th Hour,” which became a staple in the Kenyan gospel scene. Other notable tracks that showcased her talent include “Busy Busy,” “Jemedari,” “Siyabonga,” and “Thiiri.”
- Collaborations: Bayo was known for her willingness to collaborate, notably featuring Tanzanian gospel star Rose Muhando on the track “Unamuwinda Nani” and Kenyan artist Mr. Seed on “Ngai Ti Mundu.”
- Albums: Her discography includes albums such as 11th Hour (2013), Busy Busy (2013), and her more recent release, Uira (2022).
Enduring spiritual message
Bayo’s music was characterized by its deep connection to Christian values, with lyrics often exploring complex real-life experiences and offering uplifting messages.
Her ability to connect with audiences on a personal level, through her emotional and expressive voice, solidified her position as a leading voice in both the Kikuyu and Swahili gospel music spheres.
Her legacy is that of an artist whose unwavering dedication to her spiritual message provided inspiration and comfort to countless listeners across Kenya and beyond.
