Kanze Dena delivers Uhuru Kenyatta's Sh1m donation to Betty Bayo's husband Hiram Gitau when she visited the family to deliver the retired President's condolences, November 15, 2025. /4THPRESKEFormer President Uhuru Kenyatta has sent his spokesperson, Kanze Dena, to deliver his condolence message and financial support to the family of the late gospel artist Betty Bayo.
Bayo passed away on Monday, November 10, while receiving treatment at the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH).
She had been battling blood cancer (leukaemia).
Kanze Dena visited the family on Saturday, where she comforted Betty’s children, Sky and Danny, her husband, Hiram Gitau, and their extended relatives.
She conveyed the former President’s assurance of his prayers and solidarity with the family during what he described as a deeply painful moment for the gospel and creative community.
During the visit, Dena also delivered Uhuru’s contribution of Sh1 million to support the family with funeral preparations.
The former head of state said the gesture was made in recognition of Betty’s impact on gospel music and her ministry, which touched many across the country.
In his message, Uhuru mourned the artist as “an extraordinary minister of the gospel whose music uplifted countless hearts and inspired hope across the nation.”
He further paid tribute to her unwavering commitment to her calling, saying, “Betty’s legacy will endure through her children, her music, and the many lives she touched.”
He extended his heartfelt condolences to the family and prayed that they find comfort and strength in God as they navigate the loss of a mother, wife and celebrated minister of the word.
"May her soul rest in eternal peace," Uhuru said.
Kanze Dena signs the condolence book at Betty Bayo's home when she delivered retired President Uhuru Kenyatta's condolence message, November 15, 2025. /4THPRESKE
Betty Bayo rose to prominence in Kenya’s gospel scene through her distinctive vocal style, deep spirituality, and relatable songwriting, which resonated widely with Christian audiences.
Over the years, she earned a loyal following and established herself as one of the standout voices in the contemporary gospel industry.
Her songs, many of which centred on hope, restoration and personal testimony, remain widely appreciated within gospel circles.
Her track 11th Hour leads as the most-streamed song on Spotify, with over 189,000 plays, making it her top-performing single on the platform.
Other popular tracks currently attracting notable streaming numbers include Siyabonga, Thiiri, Maneno, Ti Mundu, Damu and Anabadilisha.
Spokesperson for the Office of the Fourth President Kanze Dena with Betty Bayo's husband, Hiram Gitau, when she delivered Uhuru Kenyatta's condolence message, November 15, 2025. /4THPRESKE
Bayo's passing triggered an outpouring of grief from fans, fellow musicians, church leaders and public figures who credit her with shaping modern gospel music and inspiring young artists.
Tributes have highlighted not only her musical talent but also her humility and openness about her faith journey.
As the family prepares for her final rites, Uhuru’s message adds to the national chorus of honour for an artist whose influence went beyond music and into the hearts of many who drew encouragement from her ministry.
The former President concluded his message with a prayerful reflection, asking God to give the family courage and peace during this difficult transition, and to grant Betty eternal rest.
