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Janet Wanja has passed away, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in Kenyan volleyball and inspiring countless athletes.
Celebrated Kenyan volleyballer Janet Wanja has passed away after a brave battle with gallbladder cancer.
The 40-year-old star, known for her decades-long contributions to Kenyan volleyball, died early Friday morning, December 27, as confirmed by her brother Kevin Kimani.
Wanja had been unwell for the past four months, battling the disease with resilience and courage.
A towering figure in Kenyan sports, Wanja was a key player for the national women’s volleyball team, the Malkia Strikers, where she led the squad to numerous victories on both the continental and global stages.
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20:13 - 12.01.2024
VOLLEYBALL Volleyball legend Janet Wanja outlines her ambitions after joining Malkia Strikers technical bench
Veteran Malkia Strikers setter Janet Wanja has big plans for the squad after being incorporated into the team’s coaching setup
Her untimely death leaves an immense void in the hearts of fans, teammates, and the nation at large.
“The family of Janet Wanja would like to announce her passing on after a brave battle with gallbladder cancer,” her brother, Kevin Kimani, said in a heartfelt statement.
“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 continued to express appreciation to the wider sporting community.
“Special thank you to all our friends, Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF), National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K), and Football Kenya Federation (FKF),” he concluded, promising further updates in due course.
Wanja’s life was one of passion and commitment to the sport she loved.
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She first rose to prominence during her time at Mukumu Girls High School before joining KCB Volleyball Club in 2004.
A year later, she moved to the Kenya Pipeline team, where she played until her retirement in 2019.
Her illustrious career featured a historic victory at the FIVB Grand Prix Group 3 in Australia in 2015, where Wanja and her teammates brought glory to the continent.
20:13 - 12.01.2024
VOLLEYBALL Volleyball legend Janet Wanja outlines her ambitions after joining Malkia Strikers technical bench
Veteran Malkia Strikers setter Janet Wanja has big plans for the squad after being incorporated into the team’s coaching setup
Her achievements included five Africa Nations Championships, three All-African Games titles, and an extraordinary World Grand Prix title in 2025—making Kenya the first African nation to win the coveted trophy.
Wanja’s contributions extended beyond the volleyball court. After her playing years, she dedicated herself to nurturing the next generation as a fitness trainer with the Kenya Pipeline Company and later served in the same capacity for the national team during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
President William Ruto described Wanja’s passing as a monumental loss to the sport.
"Janet Wanja, a gifted and disciplined volleyball star, 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. One day, we will beat cancer. Rest in Peace, Wanja," he wrote.
Gallbladder cancer, which claimed Wanja’s life, is a rare but aggressive disease that often goes undetected until its later stages.
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14:00 - 02.12.2023
VOLLEYBALL Janet Wanja: From setter to mentor, Malkia Strikers gain volleyball legend
Volleyball icon Janet Wanja adds unparalleled expertise and inspiration to Malkia Strikers' technical bench, enhancing their prospects.
Despite the diagnosis, Wanja faced the illness with remarkable strength and determination, embodying the spirit of a true champion.
Janet Wanja’s legacy is etched in Kenyan sports history.
Her remarkable journey, which included representing Kenya at the 2004 Athens Summer Olympics and five World Championships, serves as an enduring testament to her excellence and dedication.
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