President William Ruto has paid a tribute to celebrated gospel musician Betty Bayo, describing her as a beacon of faith and hope whose music touched millions across Kenya and beyond.
In his message on Monday, November 10, he recalled how Bayo's breakthrough song became an anthem for believers across the country.
Ruto said Bayo’s music was more than just melody but a ministry that inspired, comforted, and strengthened many through life’s storms.
"We mourn the passing of Beatrice Wairimu Mbugua, fondly known as Betty Bayo; an extraordinary gospel artiste whose voice carried hope into the hearts of countless Kenyans. 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 music that spoke of resilience, renewal and steadfast faith in the face of life’s challenges," he said.
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Ruto noted that Bayo's legacy would continue to inspire generations of gospel musicians and believers alike.
"Her message was consistent, clear, and heartfelt: never give up, no matter the hour, no matter 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. Rest in Peace, Betty Bayo," he added.
Bayo passed away earlier Monday, after a battle with leukemia at an advanced stage at Kenyatta National Hospital at 1:03 pm.
Speaking to the press, a representative confirmed the tragic news, revealing that Bayo had been battling cancer and was suffering from excessive bleeding.
"I want to tell the members of the public that today, at 1:03 pm, we have lost a survivor, Betty Bayo. Betty has been at work since last week, and she was diagnosed with acute mild cancer. She was suffering from excessive bleeding. The doctors tried to do their best," the spokesperson said.
Bayo was transferred to Kenyatta National Hospital on Friday, Novemmber 7, where medical personnel worked tirelessly to save her life.
Her body has been moved from Kenyatta National Hospital to KU Referral Hospital, with further communication to be issued later.
"We are planning to move her body from Kenyatta National Hospital to KU Referral Hospital. All the other communications and briefs will come later. May the life of our dear friend rest in peace and fare thee well. We loved you, but God loved you more," the spokesperson added.
Bishop Muthee Kiengei led tributes to the fallen gospel artist, describing her as a great contributor to the Gospel music industry.
"Beatrice Wairimu Mbugua famously known as Betty Bayo, came to limelight after releasing her hit song dubbed Eleventh Hour, a song that was received well due to its encouraging script.
"Living a life of praising God and business, the mother of two has been a jovial artist until lately when she was diagnosed with blood cancer (leukemia) at an advanced stage. She leaves behind a legacy of a great contribution in the growth of the Gospel Music industry, friendship, and a soul that maximised its full potential. She has rested after serving. My condolences to your Mum, Husband, Siblings, Friends, Music industry, and to your beautiful children,"he wrote.
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