Gospel musician Beatrice Wairimu Mbugua, popularly known as Betty Bayo, has died while receiving treatment for acute leukaemia.
Betty Bayo was first admitted to AAR Hospital on Kiambu Road after developing severe bleeding symptoms. Her condition worsened, leading to her transfer to the private wing at Kenyatta National Hospital for specialised treatment.
According to a family spokesperson, she passed away at 1:03 p.m. on Monday while undergoing treatment for acute leukaemia, a cancer affecting the blood and bone marrow.
Plans are underway to transfer her body to Kenyatta University Referral Hospital Mortuary, with burial arrangements to be communicated later.
Her former husband and father of her two children, Pastor Victor Kanyari, confirmed her passing in a brief emotional message posted online:
“R.I.P. Mama Sky. The mother to my kids.” — Pastor Kanyari
Betty later married Hiram Gitau, also known as Tosh, after separating from Kanyari several years ago.
The gospel community has been mourning the singer, describing her as a source of hope and inspiration.
Bishop Ben Kiengei expressed his grief in a heartfelt message:
“She lived praising God even through pain. Rest well, Betty Bayo. You have fought a good fight. Cancer will also die one day.” — Bishop Kiengei
Fans have been sharing her music online, especially her hit song “Eleventh Hour,” which became a powerful anthem of faith in churches across Kenya.
Betty Bayo was widely admired for her uplifting music and resilient spirit. Even in illness, she continued to encourage others. Her final Facebook post read:
“I can do all things through Jesus Christ who strengthens me.”
Her passing marks a significant loss in the Kenyan gospel ministry, where she is remembered as humble, prayerful, and deeply impactful.
