Kenya's volleyball legend Janet Wanja dies
Wanja represented Kenya in the 2004 Olympics in Athens
1mon agoTabnacha OdenyRealtime
Decorated Malkia Strikers setter Janet Wanja/FILE
President William Ruto has joined the long list of Kenyans who have been sharing their condolences with the family of volleyball legend Janet Wanja, who died on Friday.
Taking to his social media handle, the Head of State celebrated the former Malkia Strikers setter, Janet Wanja, as a gifted and disciplined volleyball star who 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 said.
The President further bemoaned Wanja's cause of death saying, "One day, we will beat cancer. Rest in Peace, Wanja."
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 Michael Olunga, who plays in Qatar, 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."