Popular Gospel Musician Betty Bayo Dies After Long Battle with Cancer
Kenya’s gospel music industry is mourning the loss of one of its most beloved voices, Beatrice Wairimu Mbugua, popularly known as Betty Bayo, who passed away on Monday, November 10, 2025, after a long and painful battle with cancer.
The heartbreaking news was confirmed by her former partner, Pastor Victor Mwangi Kanyari, with whom she shared two children.
According to sources close to the family, Pastor Kanyari and his team rushed to Kenyatta National Hospital, where the gospel artist had been undergoing treatment before she breathed her last.
Sharing the sad news on his official social media platforms, Pastor Kanyari poured out his emotions in a heartfelt message that touched many fans.
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.”
Following the news of her passing, tributes from friends, fans, and fellow gospel artists flooded social media. Among those who expressed their sorrow was Bishop Benson Gathungu Kamau, who revealed that Betty Bayo had been diagnosed with blood cancer (leukaemia), which had already reached an advanced stage by the time it was discovered.
In his emotional tribute, Bishop Kamau said, “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.
She leaves behind a legacy of great contribution to the growth of gospel music, strong friendships, and a soul that gave its all to serve.
She has now rested after fulfilling her purpose. My condolences to her mother, husband, siblings, friends, the music industry, and her beautiful children. Rest in Peace, Betty Bayo. Cancer will also die one day.”
Inooro TV news anchor Wakarura Wa Nyutu also joined the many Kenyans mourning the talented singer. She revealed that she had spent time with Betty just a week before her death. “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 in disbelief.
Betty Bayo rose to fame through her hit gospel song “Eleventh Hour”, which became a household anthem across Kenya and beyond. The song touched many hearts with its inspiring message of hope, faith, and God’s perfect timing.
Her voice and lyrics carried a unique message that resonated with people facing difficult times, making her one of the most respected figures in the gospel music industry.
Concerns about her health began to surface in August 2025, when she was admitted to the hospital and shared a photo of herself wearing an oxygen mask. At the time, she mentioned that the cold weather had affected her health but did not go into detail about her illness.
Fans expressed their concern, sending her messages of love and prayers, not knowing she was silently battling a life-threatening condition.
Betty Bayo’s death has left a huge gap in Kenya’s gospel scene. She was not only known for her beautiful music but also for her humility, cheerful nature, and her ability to uplift others through both her songs and her personal life. Her friends describe her as a strong, faith-filled woman who always carried hope even in pain.
She leaves behind her two children, a grieving family, and a nation that admired her faith and resilience. As tributes continue to pour in, one thing is certain—Betty Bayo’s music and spirit will live on, reminding Kenyans of the power of faith, love, and perseverance even in life’s darkest moments.
Rest in Peace, Betty Bayo — a true gospel icon who sang her way into our hearts and left behind a melody that will never fade.
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