Susan Kihika mourns Betty Bayo as beacon of encouragement
Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika has mourned the late gospel artist Betty Bayo, describing her as “a beacon of encouragement” whose music touched countless lives across Kenya.
In a statement on Monday, November 10, 2025, Kihika said she received the news of Betty Bayo’s passing with “great sadness”, noting that the singer’s work had left a lasting impact on the gospel music scene and on many Kenyans who found solace in her songs.
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“Her music, especially the timeless song ‘11th Hour’, uplifted countless hearts with its message of hope, faith, and perseverance. She was a true beacon of encouragement, reminding us that even in our darkest moments, God remains faithful,” Kihika stated.
The governor lauded Bayo for using her talent to inspire and unite people through faith, describing her as an artist who lived her purpose fully.
“Betty’s passing is a great loss to her family, friends, the gospel music fraternity, and the millions of Kenyans who drew strength from her ministry,” she added.
Governor Kihika extended condolences on behalf of her family and the County Government of Nakuru, praying for comfort and peace for Bayo’s loved ones.
“May the Almighty comfort you during this difficult time, and may Betty’s soul rest in eternal peace,” she said.
Betty Bayo’s demise
The county plunged into mourning following the death of Betty Bayo.
Speaking at the Kenyatta National Hospital’s private wing on Monday, November 10, 2025, a family representative, who spoke on behalf of Betty’s husband, Hiram Gitau, said that she passed away at 1:03 pm, ending days of speculation about her health.
The representative said Betty had been unwell since last week, suffering from acute leukaemia and excessive bleeding.
She revealed that she was initially admitted to AAR Hospital on Kiambu Road before being transferred to Kenyatta National Hospital on Friday, November 7, 2025.
“We are here at Kenyatta National Hospital’s private wing. The spouse, the father of their children, and friends of Betty Bayo want to inform the public that today at 1:03 pm, we have lost Betty, and it is no longer a rumour. Betty had been unwell since last week, suffering from acute leukaemia and excessive bleeding. She was first taken to AAR Hospital on Kiambu Road before being transferred here on Friday,” she said.
The family representative further explained that arrangements are underway to move her body to Kenyatta University Referral Hospital, and all further communications regarding the funeral and memorials will be shared in due course.
“The doctors did their best, but the will of God has been fulfilled. We are planning to move her body to Kenyatta University Referral Hospital, and all communications will follow,” the representative added.
Present at the announcement were Betty’s immediate husband, Hiram Gitau, her ex-husband, Pastor Victor Kanyari, and other family members and close friends.
