Global tributes pour in for volleyball icon Janet Wanja

Tributes have poured in from across the globe following the death of Kenyan volleyball legend Janet Wanja, who succumbed to gallbladder cancer on Thursday night.

From teammates and coaches to international volleyball leaders, the heartfelt messages demonstrate the profound impact Wanja had on the sport and the people she worked with.

Kenyan President William Ruto was among the first to eulogise Wanja, describing her 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."

Confédération Africaine de Volleyball (CAVB) President Bouchra Hajij described Wanja as a symbol of dedication and excellence.

"Janet Wanja's demise is a great loss to African volleyball. Her numerous awards at club level and her transition to coaching are a testament to her remarkable dedication and skill. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those she inspired and the volleyball community she helped build," he said.

We condole with the Kenya Volleyball Family on the demise of Legendary Setter Janet Wanja Mungai. May her soul rest in eternity.@kenyapipelinevc @KenyaVolley @CAVBPress pic.twitter.com/zTumYAGwcg

— CAVBZoneV (@CavbZone5) December 27, 2024

Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) President Charles Nyaberi echoed similar sentiments, calling Wanja a hero.

"The volleyball fraternity has lost a hero, but Janet's legacy will live on. Her dedication and passion will continue to inspire future generations of volleyball players," said Nyaberi.

Seychelles-based volleyball star Jane Wacu, Wanja's close friend, shared an emotional tribute.

"She was my role model, my roommate, my sister, my lookalike, my position mate, and my best friend. I feel left alone. I was planning to come to see you, but now I guess I will come for your burial. I'm sad and hurt," she said.

Malkia Strikers captain Trizah Atuka mourned Wanja as a go-getter who always put the team first.

"She knew what to do, how, and when. This will take forever to pass. Hard times and fond memories of her. Rest in peace, champ," Atuka noted.

Turkey-based volleyball star Sharon Chepchumba expressed her sorrow.

"I'd give my best day to play ball with you one more time, superstar. Forever a part of the team and always in our hearts. Rest well, champ," she added.

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 pic.twitter.com/VYCdnWnBck

— Kenya Volleyball Federation (@KenyaVolley) December 27, 2024

Former Kenya women's volleyball team captain Brackcides Agala described her devastation.

"I'm shattered. I don't know how well to mourn you. Rest in peace," Agala said.

Wanja's contributions to volleyball extended beyond her playing career.

As a trainer, she guided the Malkia Strikers through the 2024 Challenger Cup and helped prepare the team for the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Former Kenya Volleyball Federation coach David Lung'aho praised her commitment to the sport.

"We are all saddened by the news of her passing. My heartfelt condolences to the family. It's a big loss to volleyball and sports in Kenya. RIP," he said.

CAVB Zone Five President Sadik Nasiwu hailed Wanja as a luminary in African volleyball.

"Janet was not only a remarkable player but also a beacon of inspiration and dedication to the sport. Her contributions have left an indelible mark, and her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come," he said

Janet Wanja's illustrious career included stints as a player with the Malkia Strikers and as a coach, leaving behind a legacy that will resonate for years to come.