Malkia Strikers legend Janet Wanja dies after battling cancer
The 40-year-old, celebrated for her long and decorated career with Malkia Strikers and Kenya Pipeline, died on Thursday while receiving treatment at a Nairobi hospital.
Former Kenyan national women's volleyball team player Janet Wanja has passed away after battling a rare form of gallbladder cancer.
The 40-year-old, celebrated for her long and decorated career with Malkia Strikers and Kenya Pipeline, died on Thursday night at her house, where she was receiving palliative care. Wanja has been undergoing treatment at MP Shah Hospital in Nairobi.
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Her brother, Kevin Kimani, a footballer currently on loan at Mathare United, shared the news on social media, expressing the family's gratitude to Kenya Pipeline Company for their unwavering support.
"The family of Janet Wanja would like to announce her passing after a brave battle with gallbladder cancer. Our sincere and deepest gratitude goes out to Kenya Pipeline Company for walking the journey with us from the beginning and tirelessly providing all she needed in terms of medical support," he said.
Eulogised
President William Ruto eulogised Wanja, as a gifted and disciplined volleyball star.
"She served the cause of our country’s sports with honour and dedication. She 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," Ruto wrote on X.
"One day, we will beat cancer. Rest in Peace, Wanja."
The Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) mourned Wanja's passing, describing her as a legend who inspired generations.
"We mourn the loss of iconic setter Janet Wanja Mungai, a true legend who served Kenyan volleyball with unmatched passion and dedication. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations. Rest in peace, Hero," KVF said in a statement on Friday morning.
Wanja's diagnosis came a few months ago, shortly after her return from the Paris Olympics, where she served as a trainer for the Malkia Strikers.
She remained out of the spotlight until earlier this month when her family confirmed her illness.
A graduate of Mukumu Girls High School, Wanja enjoyed an illustrious career spanning nearly two decades.
She made her international debut at the 2004 Athens Olympics and went on to win five Africa Nations Championships, three All-Africa Games crowns, and the historic World Grand Prix title in 2015, marking the first such victory for an African team.
She also represented Kenya at six World Championships.
Wanja retired in 2019 to focus on coaching, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and commitment that continues to resonate in Kenyan volleyball.
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