Kenya volleyball legend Janet Wanja/FILEIt is yet another sad day for the sporting fraternity after Kenyan volleyball legend Janet Wanja tragically passed away after battling gallbladder cancer.
Wanja's family confirmed her death through the brother Kevin Kimani.
“The family of Janet Wanja would like to announce her passing on after a brace battle with cancer," Kimani said in an interview with a local radio station.
"Our sincere gratitude goes to Kenya Pipeline Company for walking the journey with usp. Special thank you to all our friends, Kenya volleyball Federation (KVF), National Olympic Committee Kenya (NOCK) and Football Kenya Federation (FKF)."
Kimani said further updates shall be provided later
Wanja fell ill in August shortly after returning from the Paris Olympics, where she served as the Malkia Strikers' fitness trainer.
The talented volleyball player represented Kenya in the 2004 Olympics in Athens and also won the Women's African Volleyball championship with malkia Strikers in 2007 among many other individual accolades during her time in the game.
The news of her demise has been followed by swift condolences from popular Kenyans in the sporting world.
Harambee Stars Captain Micheal Olunga said "Gone too soon champ Your contribution to Volleyball in Kenya and sports industry was immense and will never go unnoticed rest in peace champ, legend. Thoughts are with her family during this difficult period."
Musician Daddy Owen said " I'm deeply saddened to share the loss of another cherished friend. RIP Wanja. 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. My heartfelt condolences go out to your family and friends, especially to your brother Kimani. Rest easy, Wanja. You were truly one of a kind."
Wanja' s death come barely days after former Harambee Stars captain Victor Wanyama visited the family to support the ailing Volleyball star accompanied by his brother and FKF Vice President McDonald Mariga, former national team coach Francis Kimanzi, and several of his former teammates.
The former Harambee Stars Captain wished Wanja a speedy recovery, saying, “We are all praying for her and wishing her a quick recovery".