Nairobi — Controversial televangelist Victor Kanyari remains one of Kenya’s most polarising public figures, with a story shaped by religious fame, scandal, personal loss, and recent attempts at reinvention through philanthropy and politics.
Kanyari first rose to national prominence through his Salvation Healing Ministry, attracting large crowds through televised sermons that promised miracles, healing, and financial breakthroughs. At his peak, he was a familiar face on Kenyan television, presenting himself as a faith healer with divine authority. However, his public image collapsed in 2014 following an investigative exposé by Jicho Pevu aired on KTN.
The investigation alleged that his ministry used staged miracles, hidden communication devices to gather information from congregants, and the sale of “holy water” presented as spiritually empowered. Central to the controversy was the widely publicised request for KSh 310, popularly referred to as “mbegu ya 310.” The exposé triggered national outrage and intense debate about exploitation in religious spaces.
In response to the scandal, Kanyari later defended his actions, saying in a past interview: “People think I was just deceiving them, but I was struggling to keep the ministry running.” The remarks, however, did little to repair the damage, as critics maintained that vulnerable worshippers had been misled through false promises of healing and prosperity.
The fallout also affected his personal life. He was married to gospel singer Betty Bayo, but the relationship collapsed in 2015 amid the controversy. Their separation played out publicly, with Bayo distancing herself from the ministry scandal while raising their children. Over time, Kanyari’s private life remained under public scrutiny, including revelations that he had another child from a separate relationship.
In November 2025, Kanyari returned to headlines following the death of Betty Bayo after a battle with leukaemia. The loss drew national sympathy, with Kanyari stating in a social media reflection: “Her death shocked me. I did not know she was in that condition.” He also disclosed that he received financial contributions toward her burial, a revelation that sparked mixed reactions online given their past separation.
In recent years, Kanyari has attempted a public reinvention through community-based initiatives. He has been seen distributing food to vulnerable families, particularly the elderly, describing the efforts as part of what he calls “practical ministry.” In church-led initiatives, he has also supported elderly congregants by facilitating access to medical cover and healthcare assistance.
Kanyari has further expanded his outreach into youth empowerment programmes. These include the distribution of income-generating tools such as motorcycles for boda boda operators, handcarts (mkokoteni), and trolleys intended to help young people enter small-scale transport and trade. Supporters describe these efforts as meaningful grassroots empowerment, while critics argue they also serve to rebuild his public image.
In one of his recent public addresses, Kanyari stated: “We cannot keep waiting for leaders who forget the people. I want to be part of the solution at the ground level.” He has also announced his intention to vie for the Kasarani Member of Parliament seat, arguing that the constituency has long suffered from neglect and requires leadership focused on service delivery and youth empowerment.
Beyond philanthropy and politics, Kanyari has also been visible supporting individuals facing public and personal struggles, including figures such as Marion Naipei and Manzi Wa Mombasa. His supporters say this reflects a shift toward social advocacy, while critics view it as continued pursuit of public attention.
Today, Victor Kanyari remains a deeply divisive figure in Kenya’s public space. To some, he represents redemption through service and reinvention. To others, he remains a reminder of one of Kenya’s most controversial religious scandals. His journey continues to blur the line between faith, fame, and public perception—keeping him firmly in the national spotlight.
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