Kenya's 4th President Uhuru Kenyatta, has honoured his promise to the late gospel artist Betty Bayo by offering support towards her funeral, just days after her death.
On Saturday November 15, the Office of the Fourth President's spokesperson Kanze Dena visited the late Betty's home to convey Kenyatta's condolences and offer the family monetary support of Ksh1 million, including to the late artist's children, her husband Huram Gitau, and other relatives.
According to a statement from Uhuru's office, the Ksh1 million donation was intended to help with the funeral arrangements and to honour Betty Bayo's life and ministry.
Betty Bayo passed away on Monday, November 10, after a battle with leukaemia, with her family revealing that her health deteriorated a week before her untimely death.
"In his message, Kenyatta mourned Betty as 'an extraordinary minister of the gospel whose music uplifted countless hearts and inspired hope across the nation.” He celebrated her dedication and contribution to gospel music and the strength of her faith, noting that “Betty’s legacy will endure through her children, her music, and the many lives she touched," a statement from Uhuru's office read.
Plans of Uhuru's Ksh1 million donation were first announced by Ben Gitae on Thursday, who added that Kenyatta had requested the names of Bayo's children so that their education could be sponsored through the Kenyatta Foundation.
Musician Ngaruiya Junior had estimated Bayo's send-off would cost around Ksh3 million.
Bayo's memorial service is set to be held at Christian Foundation Fellowship (CFF) along Kiambu Road. The late artist was familiar with the church as she ministered there through her music.
Earlier in November, Uhuru shared a worrying update on his health, suggesting that he could also be battling a chronic illness. There is speculation that his struggles is the reason why he deeply empathised with Betty Bayo's death.
About Betty Bayo
Betty Bayo burst into the Kenyan gospel scene through her hit song 11th Hour, which somehow resonates with her audience 13 years later.
As far as her condition is concerned, Betty was determined to maintain her privacy throughout her cancer battle, as he reportedly urged her friends not to organise fundraisers. One of her closest friends revealed the artist wanted to "die with respect".
Her ex-partner, controversial pastor Victor Kanyari, admitted he was unaware of the extent of her illness, which intensified his grief.
