Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has described the death of gospel artist Beatrice Mbugua, known to fans as Betty Bayo, as a major setback to Kenya’s vibrant gospel music industry.
In a message of condolence shared on his Facebook page, Kindiki said Bayo’s passing had robbed the country of a gifted voice that inspired hope and strengthened faith among many Kenyans.
He noted that her journey from modest beginnings to national recognition reflected the potential and promise of Kenya’s creative sector.
“Betty Bayo’s life speaks to the power of focus and determination,” the Deputy President stated. “Her death has left a gap not only in the gospel fraternity but also in our broader cultural landscape.”
Bayo was one of the most recognized figures in Kenya’s gospel scene, known for songs such as Elewa and Umenifanya Ning’are.
Her music, which blended faith and everyday life experiences, resonated deeply with audiences across the country and beyond.
Her passing, reported to have occurred on Sunday at a Nairobi hospital after a brief illness, has drawn widespread grief from fans, fellow musicians, and church leaders.
Many have described her as a symbol of resilience who shaped the modern gospel sound and mentored emerging artists.
The Deputy President’s tribute comes as the creative industry continues to mourn a series of losses in recent years, with several prominent gospel figures passing away.
Industry observers say Bayo’s contribution helped cement Kenya’s position as one of East Africa’s leading gospel music markets, a sector valued in the billions and central to the country’s entertainment economy.
Condolence messages have continued to pour in from across the country, with leaders and fans commending Bayo’s legacy of using her talent to inspire and bring people closer to their faith.