Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has called on Kenyan musicians and creatives to unite in establishing a national trust fund that would support the families of artists in the event of death or other hardships.
Speaking on Thursday during the burial service of renowned gospel musician Betty Bayo at Ndumberi Stadium in Kiambu County, Kindiki said the initiative would provide critical financial security for families often left vulnerable when artists pass on.
“I am requesting our talented artists in the creative economy to come together and establish a big trust to provide resources to take care of children and families of artists left in poverty,” he said.
The Deputy President emphasised that the proposed trust fund would ease the burden on families who rely heavily on an artist’s income, noting that many are left struggling when the breadwinner is gone.
Kindiki welcomed ongoing efforts to set up a trust fund specifically for the late Bayo’s children and announced his personal contribution, saying President William Ruto had also extended his support.
“I will support the family of Bayo to ensure her children are well taken care of because they should not suffer yet their mother was a blessing to the church and the country,” he said.
Bayo, celebrated for her impact on Kenya’s gospel music scene, was mourned by fellow artists, church leaders and fans who attended the burial service.
Kindiki’s appeal adds momentum to long-standing calls for structured safety nets within the entertainment industry, where many rely on informal income streams and lack long-term financial protection.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki signs condolence book on Thursday during the burial service of renowned gospel musician Betty Bayo at Ndumberi Stadium in Kiambu County/DPCSDeputy President Kithure Kindiki signs condolence book on Thursday during the burial service of renowned gospel musician Betty Bayo at Ndumberi Stadium in Kiambu County/DPCS
The Deputy President said the government is ready to support initiatives that strengthen the wellbeing of creative professionals and their dependents, adding that the industry plays a significant role in shaping Kenya’s cultural identity and providing livelihoods.
Bayo passed on Monday, November 10, 2025, at the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH).
A representative of the family in a press briefing streamed on her ex-husband Prophet Kanyari's social media pages said she suffered from leukemia and had been admitted in hospital since last week.
“We want to tell members of the public that today, at 1.03 pm we have lost Betty Bayo, it is no longer a rumour. Betty was unwell since last. she was diagnosed with acute mild cancer, that is leukemia.
“She was suffering from excessive bleeding, and the doctors tried to do their best. She had been taken to AAR Kiambu Road and later transferred to KNH. The doctors tried their best but the will of God prevailed,” the representative said.
