Remembering Betty Bayo: The Voice of Faith, Resilience, and Hope

Born on June 4, 1985, in Kiambu County later spent part of her childhood in Ol Kalou Kenya, Beatrice Mbugua  popularly known as Betty Bayo  rose from humble beginnings to become one of Kenya’s most beloved gospel artists

Growing up as the last-born in a family of eight, she faced many hardships, including financial struggles that forced her to drop out of school at Form Two. Determined to support her family, she worked as a househelp for two years before returning to school

These early experiences shaped her message of faith and endurance, themes that became central to her music. By 2025, Betty was 40 years old and a household name in Kenyan gospel circlesDuring the 2010s, Betty emerged as part of a vibrant wave of Kikuyu gospel musicians whose songs spoke to everyday struggles

Her music  including hits such as “11th Hour,” “Gatho,” “Jemedari,” “Thiiri,” “Udahi,” “Ndîkerîria,” “Maneno,” and “Agocwo” blended faith with real-life experiences of love, loss, and hope

Her relatable lyrics and conversational singing style won the hearts of many Kenyans who saw their own stories reflected in her songs

Betty’s performances were known for their passion and testimony, as she used the stage to connect deeply with audiences through honesty and empathy. Her authenticity made her one of the most respected figures in gospel music

 
Betty’s personal life drew public attention, particularly her past relationship with Pastor Victor Kanyari, with whom she had children

Their union came under scrutiny following controversies surrounding the pastor’s ministry in 2014. Betty distanced herself from the scandal, emphasizing that she was never involved in any wrongdoing

In 2021, she found love again and married businessman Hiram “Tash” Gitau in a traditional Kikuyu ruracio ceremony

She described her new marriage as a “second chance”  one grounded in peace, love, and mutual respect. Betty often spoke publicly about the importance of leaving toxic relationships, telling women that “God hates divorce, not divorcees”

A devoted mother, she proudly supported her children’s education and celebrated her daughter Sky’s move to Texas for studies in 2024

Despite occasional gossip and online rumours, Betty maintained grace and focused on her mission to inspire through faith and music

 Also read : Primary School Heads Dismiss Proposal to Move JSS Management to Senior Schools

Betty Bayo’s passing on November 10, 2025, at Kenyatta National Hospital left Kenya’s gospel community in mourning. She had been battling acute leukaemia, a diagnosis she revealed only months before her death

Despite her illness, Betty continued to post words of encouragement and faith, inspiring many even in her final days.

Her death at the age of 40 brought an outpouring of tributes from fellow musicians, pastors, and fans

Bishop Benson Gathungu Kamau, gospel artist Shiro wa GP, and Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris were among those who paid their respects

Her legacy sparked wider conversations about healthcare and the well-being of artists in Kenya

Betty Bayo’s life was a story of courage, faith, and rebirth. From a househelp to a celebrated gospel artist, she turned life’s trials into powerful testimonies through song

Her voice will continue to echo in homes, churches, and hearts across Kenya  reminding all who listen that even through pain, hope can still sing

writer : Mweru Mbugua