The nation continues to mourn the loss of gospel minister Betty Bayo, the celebrated voice behind Busy Busy and 11th Hour, who passed away on Monday, November 10, 2025, after battling acute leukaemia and excessive bleeding. She was first admitted to AAR Hospital on Kiambu Road before being transferred to Kenyatta National Hospital, where she died at 1:03 pm. Her passing triggered an outpouring of tributes from family, friends, fellow musicians, and fans who praised her impact on Kenya’s gospel music scene and her unwavering dedication to ministry.
A memorial service and candle lighting ceremony were held on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at Bishop Michael Wanderi’s Christian Foundation Fellowship (CFF) in Kiambu Town. The event drew a large gathering of worshippers and a notable list of public figures from the entertainment, religious, and political spheres. Beginning at 2:00 pm, the service brought together people who honoured Betty’s legacy through prayers, worship, speeches, and the symbolic lighting of candles in her memory.
Which Gospel Celebrities Attended the Memorial?
Among the most celebrated figures at the ceremony was gospel minister Dr Sarah Kiarie, known widely as Sarah K. Her arrival sparked excitement, as many did not expect her presence. She was warmly ushered to the front, where she joined other artistes in leading worship and performing some of Betty’s popular songs in a touching tribute to her friend.
Also present was DJ Moh, the husband of gospel singer Size 8. He attended the memorial alongside Betty Bayo’s widower, Hiram Gitau, offering visible support during emotionally heavy moments. Dressed in a full black suit, he remained close to Hiram throughout the service and especially during Hiram’s speech, providing steady solidarity.
Gospel star Guardian Angel also attended the gathering. Photos shared by Facebook influencer Karangu Muraya showed him seated quietly in a secluded area of the church, appearing deep in thought. His bond with Betty was well known, and he had previously shared a heartfelt message on social media upon learning of her death.
The religious community was strongly represented as well. Bishop Ben Kiengei of Jesus Compassion Ministries attended and was given time to address the congregation. He reflected somberly on difficult moments he and Betty had experienced in the past, including cyberbullying, and prayed for her peaceful rest. Bishop Mwangi Zakayo of Kamutiini Priesthood Fellowship Church also attended, welcoming Bishop Kiengei to the stage and recalling his personal friendship with the late minister. He was accompanied by Reverend Mary Lincon, who sat alongside Bishop Kiengei during the service.
Which Political Leaders Joined the Candle Lighting Event?
In addition to gospel figures, several political leaders attended the memorial to honour Betty’s life and speak on issues raised by her untimely passing. Among the most prominent was People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua. Dressed in a long pink gown, her arrival drew considerable media attention as YouTubers rushed to capture the moment. During her address, she described Betty as a trailblazer in Kikuyu gospel music and used the platform to criticise gaps in Kenya’s healthcare system. Karua urged leaders to take responsibility, saying, “Those who are in the trade that I am in, that is, leadership and politics, let us do the best we can; a lot of words and no action cannot be enough, let us, wherever we stand, improve health services so that no family has to suffer, let us improve services across the board, let us improve security.”
Former Senior Economic Advisor to President William Ruto, Moses Kuria, also attended and shared his reflections on both Betty’s legacy and the broader issue of public health. Kuria echoed Karua’s sentiments, saying, “Let me echo the sentiments of Honourable Martha Karua, we have a duty as leaders to ensure that we do everything possible to strengthen the healthcare system in this country.” He also recalled a personal memory from four years earlier. “When Shiro wa GP called me and told me Betty was in a hospital, I was abroad; when I came back, she was already dead. I remember four years ago when I was in Karen hospital, Betty and Tash walikuja kuniona na wakaniombea,” he added.
The candle lighting memorial highlighted the profound mark Betty Bayo left on Kenya’s gospel community and the far-reaching influence of her music and ministry. As preparations continue for her final send-off, the tributes shared at CFF Kiambu reflect a legacy defined by faith, resilience, and a powerful connection to the people she ministered to throughout her life.
By Lucky Anyanje