City pastor Victor Kanyari was overcome with emotion as he mourned his late ex-wife and celebrated gospel artist Betty Bayo, following news of her death.
In videos widely shared on social media, the preacher appeared visibly shaken as he struggled to come to terms with the heartbreaking loss.
“Niliona simu ya Mama Sky, nimemsave hivyo, nikashangaa nini mbaya… Na mimi aki sikuambiwa hii story,” Kanyari said in one clip.
In another video taken during a press briefing at Kenyatta National Hospital, Kanyari broke down in tears as fellow musicians and friends addressed the media. Among those present were Murang’a Woman Rep Betty Maina, DJ Mo, Ben Githae, and other gospel artistes.
On Facebook, Kanyari posted a photo of the late singer, writing:
“So sad… R.I.P Mama Sky… The mother to my kids.”
The post quickly went viral, drawing an outpouring of sympathy from fans and fellow gospel artists.
Kanyari and Betty Bayo, who parted ways years ago over irreconcilable differences, had long reconciled and maintained a cordial friendship. Despite their divorce, they co-parented with warmth and mutual respect.
Betty had since remarried, while the pair continued to share parental responsibilities for their daughter, Sky, whom Kanyari mentioned in his tribute.
The gospel fraternity and public figures across Kenya have joined in mourning the beloved singer.
Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris shared a condolence message on social media, saying:
“It is with a heavy heart that I have received the news of the passing of our beloved Kenyan gospel artist Betty Bayo at Kenyatta Hospital. My heartfelt prayers go out to her family, friends, and the entire Kenyan gospel fraternity during this difficult time. May her soul rest in eternal peace.”
JCM’s Bishop Ben Kiengei also eulogised her.
“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. My condolences to her family, husband, siblings, friends, and the entire music industry. Rest in peace, Betty Bayo — cancer will also die one day,” he wrote.
What transpired
Betty Bayo, born Beatrice Mbugua, passed away at Kenyatta National Hospital after a long battle with leukemia, according to close friend and fellow musician Ngaruiya Junior.
“She had been treated before at separate hospitals and had been recovering at home. Later, she became unwell just days ago, got admitted at Kenyatta National Hospital and now she has rested,” Ngaruiya told TNX Africa.
At the time of her death, Betty had been in close contact with Ngaruiya and fellow gospel artist Shiru Wa GP.
A celebrated figure in Kenya’s gospel scene, Betty was known for her emotional vocals and uplifting songs such as “11th Hour,” “Jemedari,” “Busy Busy,” and “Siyabonga.”
Her breakthrough hit, “11th Hour,” propelled her into the limelight, earning her millions of fans. She amassed over 1 million streams on Boomplay and 20 million views on YouTube, cementing her legacy as one of the most beloved voices in the Kikuyu gospel music scene — a voice of faith, hope, and love that continues to inspire many.