President William Ruto, Africa Volleyball Federation (CAVB), National Olympics Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) and Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) has led the country in mourning the death of a celebrated volleyball star Janet Wanja.
Ruto, through his X handle wrote: “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.”
https://twitter.com/WilliamsRuto/status/1872499969979990281
The 40-year-old was confirmed dead by her brother Kevin Kimani after a four-month battle with gallbladder cancer, throwing the country into mourning. The CAVB, in their message, said they are saddened by the news, terming Wanja an exceptional and skillful setter who set the standards in the continent.
https://twitter.com/KenyaVolley/status/1872485746273386915
CAVB President Bouchra Hajij led the Africa in mourning the queen saying: “It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Ms Janet Wanja , the iconic and award-winning setter and Olympian from Kenya. Janet bravely succumbed to gallbladder cancer, this morning and her untimely loss has left a profound void in the volleyball community.”
The NOC-K president Paul Tergat led the nation in mourning Wanja saying that the entire sports fraternity has lost a big person.
“I extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and teammates of Janet Wanja following her death after an illness bravely fought and borne. Just recently on the eve of Christmas, my Executive Board dispatched our Secretary General, Francis Mutuku and the Paris Olympic Games CEO, Wanji Karani, to spend time with the family and cheer up the departed. The cruel hand of death has truly robbed us of a phenomenal star. Janet was a distinguished elite Olympian and a promising strength and conditioning coach in volleyball. While she shone on the court earlier in her career, her participation in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games as a coach highlighted her transition into mentorship and her unwavering dedication to developing future champions. Her passion for sport and her role in shaping young talent were truly inspirational.”
“Janet’s legacy of perseverance, hard work, and mentorship will continue to inspire us all. As we mourn her untimely demise, we also celebrate the indelible mark and rich sporting legacy she has left on Kenyan sports, particularly volleyball under Malkia Strikers. May her soul rest in eternal peace as we stand in solidarity and pray that God grants her loved one’s strength and comfort to bear this difficult time and celebrate the cherished memories of her remarkable life.”