Ruto and Kindiki Donate Sh10m to Bereaved Family of Betty Bayo

Kenyan political leaders and the gospel community gathered in Kiambu on 20 November for the burial of musician Betty Bayo, where President William Ruto and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki pledged Sh10 million to support her children.

Deputy President Kindiki told mourners that his family would contribute Sh5 million and that President Ruto had sent a further Sh5 million to assist with the children’s education and welfare. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta had earlier donated Sh1 million towards funeral expenses. 

In his condolence message, Uhuru described Bayo as a gifted gospel minister whose music encouraged many and whose influence would continue through her children and those she inspired. Bayo, known for her hit Eleventh Hour, died on 10 November while receiving treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital. 

Her former partner, Pastor Victor Kanyari, confirmed her death. The song that brought her national recognition became a staple in churches for its message of hope and divine intervention. Fellow artists have remembered her as a humble figure whose work extended into content creation, fashion and lifestyle.

Her funeral combined public tributes with deep personal grief. Her husband, Hiram Gitau, delivered a moving eulogy, describing her as the guiding force in his life and speaking of the routines and conversations he now misses. He said he would devote himself to their children, Sky and Danny, calling them the most important part of her legacy.

Gitau also promised to uphold Bayo’s family traditions, including holidays and celebrations she valued, and spoke of rebuilding his life with the lessons she left behind.