Betty Bayo was unwell since last week, family reveals

Gospel artist Betty Bayo died while receiving treatment for blood cancer at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), the family has announced.

Bayo, known for her hit song 11th Hour, passed away at 1:03 pm on Monday, November 10, 2025. The family confirmed the news during a press briefing held at KNH, where they detailed her final moments and the illness she had been battling.

Family spokespersons described the loss as a huge blow to the family and the gospel fraternity. They said Bayo had been hospitalised since last week after being diagnosed with blood cancer.

“We want to tell the public that today at 1:03 pm, we lost Betty Bayo. It is no longer a rumour; it is the truth,” the family spokesperson said during the briefing.

The family explained that Bayo’s illness progressed rapidly, leading to complications that doctors tried to manage before she passed away. According to the family, she had been diagnosed with acute mild leukaemia, which resulted in excessive bleeding.

“Betty has been unwell since last week; she was diagnosed with acute mild cancer—leukemia. Betty was transferred to KNH on Friday as she was suffering from excessive bleeding. The doctors tried their best, but the will of God has prevailed,” the family said.

Bayo’s ex-husband, Apostle Victor Kanyari, was present during the briefing and stood alongside family members as they addressed the media.

The family said plans were underway to move her body from Kenyatta National Hospital to the Kenyatta University Referral Mortuary.

“We are planning to move her body from Kenyatta National Hospital to the Kenyatta University Referral Mortuary, and all the other announcements on the plans to follow will come later,” they said.

Bayo, who rose to national fame in Kenya’s gospel music industry, built a strong following over the years through her uplifting songs, ministry engagements and public appearances. Her hit track 11th Hour has been widely celebrated for its message of hope and divine intervention.

News of her death has shocked fans and colleagues across the entertainment industry, many of whom have taken to social media to express condolences and share memories of the singer’s impact.

Fellow artists and industry stakeholders have poured in tributes, describing her as a humble, gifted, and inspirational figure whose music touched countless lives.

“RIP to one of our own, Betty Bayo. A true vessel of God whose voice & ministry touched countless lives. Her passion for the Gospel will never be forgotten. To her family, friends, & the entire Gospel fraternity, may God comfort & strengthen you,” Gospel Musician Daddy Owen said.

At the hospital, the mood was somber as close family members gathered to come to terms with her passing. The family said they would issue further details on burial plans and related arrangements once preparations are finalised.

Bayo’s death marks the loss of a prominent voice in Kenya’s gospel scene, ending a career that touched many lives through music and ministry