Former national women’s volleyball team player Janet Wanja, 40, died Friday, December 29, from gallbladder cancer.
Her death was announced on Friday morning by her elder brother Kevin Kimani who indicated that the long-serving setter, who also played for Kenya Pipeline and KCB, died on Thursday at 10pm.
“Our sincere and deepest gratitude goes out to the Kenya Pipeline Company for walking the journey with us from the beginning, and tirelessly providing all she needed in medical support,” Kimani, a Mathare United player, said.
“Special thank you to all our friends, Kenya volleyball Federation (KVF), National Olympic Committee Kenya (NOCK) and Football Kenya Federation (FKF). Further updates shall be provided,” he added.
The late volleyball star competed at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, Greece, and was also a trainer for Malkiah Strikers in Paris Olympics. Her body has been moved to Montezuma Monalisa Funeral Home along Mbagathi Way road in Nairobi.
Kenya Volleyball Federation President Charles Nyaberi has praised the late for her contributions to the Federation and sports. Mr Nyaberi said, “She was a dedicated, passionate, and incredibly talented player who represented both her club and country at the highest continental and global levels for over two decades.”
President William Ruto has also condoled with the family saying Ms Wanja was focused, hardworking and a team player.
“May it be comfort to her family, friends and the wider sports fraternity that we are praying for them at this tough and difficult time… One day, we will beat cancer,” Ruto said in his condolence message posted on X social media platform.
Condolences streamed in from other X users with Daddy Owen noting that Kenya has lost a true legend in sports.
“You will forever be remembered as an exceptional and flamboyant volleyball player, whose legacy shines brightly in the history of Kenyan sports. Your name will always be etched in the annals of Kenya’s sporting achievements,” Owen wrote on X.
