Kenyans have continued visiting the home of late gospel singer Betty Bayo to support her grieving husband, Hiram Gitau, popularly known as Tash, and their two children. Among the visitors was Roots Party leader George Wajackoyah, whose compassionate gesture toward the widower deeply touched mourners and social media users alike.
Betty Bayo’s Battle with Leukaemia
Betty Bayo passed away on November 10 at Kenyatta National Hospital after complications from leukaemia. Her condition deteriorated rapidly when she began bleeding in bed, yet she managed to reach her car and honk for help. Neighbours quickly assisted her and rushed her to AAR Hospital.
According to close friend and gospel singer Shiru Wa GP, delays in receiving treatment occurred due to insufficient hospital deposits. Shiru paid KSh 260,000 for Betty’s admission, while friends contributed an additional KSh 1.3 million. Tragically, she suffered a stroke and a blood clot in her brain, leading to her transfer to Kenyatta National Hospital where she later passed away.
Funeral Arrangements
Betty’s body was moved from the KNH mortuary to KU Funeral Home along Thika Road. Family spokesperson Elder David Kigomo confirmed her burial will take place on November 20 at Mugumo Estate, Kiambu Road, with a memorial service at the Christian Foundation Fellowship Church. The funeral budget was set at KSh 5 million.
Wajackoyah’s Heartwarming Gesture
During a service at Blue Springs Hotel, George Wajackoyah was seen consoling Tash in a moving moment that quickly went viral. Dressed in a black suit and his signature red durag, Wajackoyah approached Tash, warmly embraced him, and offered words of comfort before greeting other mourners. Tash appeared in dark trousers and a colourful shirt during the encounter.
The public responded positively, praising Wajackoyah’s empathy and humanity. Comments included:
- Carolyne Mwende: “Finally, thank you, Wajackoyah, for hugging that man.”
- Ann Kananu: “For that reason, kura yangu ni yake. He needed it.”
Legacy of Betty Bayo
Betty Bayo had been battling acute leukaemia, a fast-progressing cancer affecting blood-forming tissues such as bone marrow and lymph nodes. Despite efforts to secure treatment, the illness claimed her life, leaving a significant void in the Kenyan gospel music community and among her fans.
