The gospel music community in Kenya is mourning the untimely death of celebrated singer Betty Bayo. She passed away on Monday, November 10, due to complications from acute myeloid pneumonia. Friends, colleagues, and fans have been gathering across the city to pay their respects, highlighting the deep impact she had on the industry.
Mourning sessions have been held daily at Blue Springs Hotel along Thika Road since 6:00 pm, where gospel artistes and close friends have been leading fellowship and remembrance activities. The sessions have provided a space for sharing memories, offering prayers, and supporting one another in grief.
An unexpected moment occurred on Wednesday, November 12, during the second mourning session, when philanthropist Karangu Muraya and his estranged wife, Triza Njeri, shared a brief but notable interaction. The couple, whose marital disputes played out publicly online throughout the year, had been at odds following Karangu’s second marriage to Carol Kim. The tension included a leaked audio clip in August that further strained their relationship, leading Karangu to take a break from social media and travel abroad.
During the session, Triza approached Karangu while he was leading the collection of funds from attendees. He took her phone to announce the KSh 10,000 she had donated, and in a show of unity and respect, he introduced her to the crowd: “She is called Triza Mamake Muraya, a good friend of mine and the mother of my kids.” The moment sparked applause from attendees and symbolized a reconciliation of sorts, though the couple remains separated.
The interaction quickly became a topic of discussion online. Netizens reacted to the display of maturity and cordiality, with some praising their ability to put aside personal differences for a common cause, while others joked about the dynamics of their past disputes.
Betty Bayo’s passing has united the gospel community, bringing together friends, artistes, and supporters in remembrance. The brief reunion between Karangu Muraya and Triza Njeri added a poignant layer to the mourning, demonstrating the power of respect and collaboration even amid past conflict.
