President William Ruto has mourned the late gospel singer Beatrice Mbugua, fondly known as Betty Bayo, describing her as an extraordinary artiste whose voice carried hope into the hearts of many Kenyans.
In a message shared on his official pages, President Ruto hailed the “11th Hour” hitmaker for her powerful ministry through music.
“Her breakthrough hit, 11th Hour, was a powerful anthem of divine turnaround that inspired the faithful and comforted many who sought strength, healing and reassurance in gospel music. For over 15 years, Betty lifted spirits through songs that spoke of resilience, renewal and steadfast faith in the face of life’s challenges,” Ruto said.
“Her message was consistent, clear and heartfelt – never give up, no matter the hour or the storm. Her voice may have fallen silent, but her ministry lives on in every heart she touched, every soul she uplifted, and every life she helped steady in difficult moments,” he added.
The Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK), led by CEO Ezekiel Mutua, also paid tribute to the singer, describing her as a beacon of faith and inspiration.
“We offer our deepest sympathies to her family, friends, fellow musicians and fans during this difficult time. Betty Bayo will be remembered for her powerful voice, steadfast faith and inspiring songs that touched countless lives nationwide,” MCSK said in a statement.
Bayo passed away at Kenyatta National Hospital after a long battle with leukaemia.
During a media briefing at KNH, Murang’a Woman Representative Betty Maina, speaking on behalf of the family, said the singer had suffered complications arising from cancer that caused excessive bleeding.
“Together with the spouse, Hiram Gitau, the father of Betty’s children, Pastor Kanyari, and friends of Betty, we wish to inform the public that today, we have lost Betty Bayo,” she said.
Maina explained that the singer was first admitted to AAR Kiambu Road Hospital before being transferred to KNH on Friday, November 7, as her condition worsened.
“She had been unwell, suffering from leukaemia. The doctors tried their best, but by the will of God, she has rested. We are transferring her body to KU Referral,” she added.
The family is set to release official burial and funeral arrangements soon.