President Ruto leads Kenyans in mourning Malkia Strikers legend Janet Wanja

Malkia Strikers' Trainer Janet Wanja during the launch of Malkia Strikers and Wafalme Stars teams at the Nyayo National Stadium. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

President William Ruto has led the nation in mourning the passing of celebrated Malkia Strikers legend Janet Wanja, who succumbed to gallbladder cancer while receiving palliative care.

In his heartfelt tribute, President Ruto lauded Wanja's immense contribution to Kenyan sports, describing her as a disciplined and gifted volleyball star.

"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," the President's statement read.

The 40-year-old veteran setter, who had a glittering career spanning over two decades, passed away after a brave battle with the rare cancer.

Her brother, Kevin Kimani, a footballer currently featuring for Mathare United, confirmed the tragic news on Thursday night through a heartfelt social media post.

"The family of Janet Wanja would like to announce her passing on after a brave battle with gallbladder cancer. 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," said Kimani.

Kimani also thanked the Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF), National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K), and Football Kenya Federation (FKF) for their support during Wanja's illness.

Wanja was diagnosed with gallbladder cancer shortly after returning from the Paris Olympics, where she had served as a trainer for the Malkia Strikers.

Following her diagnosis, she remained out of the public eye for months until her family confirmed her condition earlier this month.

The Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) President Charles Nyaberi expressed the volleyball fraternity's deep sorrow at Wanja's passing.

"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 gallbladder cancer," Nyaberi said in a statement.

Nyaberi highlighted Wanja's illustrious career, which began at Mukumu Girls High School, where she was a standout talent, before joining KCB and later making her mark at Kenya Pipeline. As a setter for the Malkia Strikers, she represented Kenya at the highest continental and global levels, cementing her place as one of the nation's greatest volleyball players.

"Janet's contributions to the Federation and sports, in general, were extraordinary. Earlier this year, she transitioned to a new role as the Malkia Strikers Team Trainer, where her expertise guided the team to the Paris Olympics and the World Challenger Cup in the Philippines," Nyaberi added.

The KVF President also extended gratitude to Kenya Pipeline Company for their unwavering support in covering Wanja's medical expenses and thanked the wider sports community for their moral support during her illness.

As Kenyans mourn the loss of a sports icon, Wanja's legacy of dedication, passion, and resilience will undoubtedly inspire future generations of athletes. May her soul rest in eternal peace.