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Transition: Volleyball star Janet Wanja passes on at 40

Kenya mourns the loss of celebrated women’s volleyball star Janet Wanja, who has sadly passed away at the age of 40. Her family confirmed the news in a statement from her brother, Kevin Kimani, revealing that Wanja succumbed to gall bladder cancer on Thursday at 10 PM.

“The family of Janet Wanja would like to announce her passing after a brave battle with cancer. We extend our deepest gratitude to the Kenya Pipeline Company for their unwavering support throughout her medical journey. We also thank our friends, the Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF), the National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOCK), and the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) for their kindness during this difficult time. Further updates will be provided,” Kevin Kimani, who plays for Mathare United in the Kenyan Premier League, stated.

Wanja’s body has been taken to Montezuma Monalisa Funeral Home along Mbagathi Way in Nairobi.

Before her cancer diagnosis, Wanja was serving as a trainer for the Malkia Strikers team, guiding them at the Paris Olympic Games.

The President of the Kenya Volleyball Federation, Charles Nyaberi, expressed condolences to Wanja’s family, highlighting her remarkable contributions to the sport. “The Kenya Volleyball Federation is deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved star, iconic veteran setter Janet Wanja Mungai, after a courageous battle with gall bladder cancer. Janet’s dedication and talent shone brightly as she represented both her club and country at the highest levels for over two decades,” Nyaberi remarked.

Wanja began her illustrious career at KCB and later joined Kenya Pipeline, earning recognition for her exceptional skills on the court. She worked tirelessly as a trainer for the national women’s volleyball team, Malkia Strikers, earlier this year after retiring from active competition. Wanja represented Kenya at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris and the 2024 World Challenger Cup in the Philippines.

She received treatment at MP Shah Hospital in Nairobi before her passing. The volleyball community and sports enthusiasts are left to cherish her legacy and remember her remarkable contributions to the game.

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