Janet Wanja stood on the sidelines at the Paris Olympics, her presence exuding the same grace and energy that once made her a star on the court. The former setter, who dazzled the world as part of Kenya’s national volleyball team at the 2004 Olympics, had returned in a new role—as the Malkia Strikers’ fitness coach. At 40, she seemed the picture of health, guiding her team with the wisdom of a seasoned pro. But what no one knew, not even some close to her, was that in just four months, this beacon would tragically leave the world.

Yet, that’s the unfortunate reality that Wanja’s family and fans across the globe are grappling with. On December 9, 2024, the Kenyan icon’s brother revealed that Wanja fell sick shortly after returning from Paris. “Wanja… has been diagnosed with gallbladder cancer and is currently undergoing treatment in Nairobi,” brother Kevin Kimani wrote on social media.

Unfortunately, the volleyball icon lost her battle. “The family of Janet Wanja would like to announce her passing on after a brave battle with gallbladder cancer,” Kimani posted on social media, and soon condolences from fans poured in. “Wanja was my neighbor for about 7 years, and she was the most welcoming person! Still in shock. RIP Wanja,” a fan posted on X.

The netizen’s comment was one of many testimonies to the humble nature of the champion setter. Janet Wanja remained humble and constantly strived to elevate the sport in her nation. Despite standing at 5’9, Wanja could stand toe-to-toe with many taller players, with a 110-inch vertical reach. While she didn’t win an Olympic medal, Wanja ranked among the best during her prime.

Even when the five-time CAVB African Nations Championship retired as a player, she continued to give back, becoming a trainer. And this is why fans continue to hold such immense respect for the player. “The face of Kenyan volleyball. For some reason when volleyball is mentioned in Kenya Janet Wanja and Paul Bitok immediately come to mind,” commented a fan.

“I don’t think that will stop soon for me. May she rest in peace,” added the fan. However, the community’s love and support for the Olympian showed even when she was alive and battling cancer. And maybe that’s why her sudden demise shocked the community.

The volleyball icon’s demise caught the community off guard

While Janet Wanja’s condition worsened rapidly after returning from Paris, the family wasn’t alone in their fight against the disease. The late Kenyan spring icon’s former club, Kenya Pipeline, which she led to an African Club Championship title victory, supported the family with treatment. In fact, Kimani didn’t raise any serious concerns in his latest update and thanked KPC.

Hence, the news felt like yet another sudden blow to the volleyball community, still reeling from the loss of a teenage talent. “Ooh no! This is so tragic and saddening. Rest in power champion Wanja,” a fan commented on X. Kimani even wrote a lengthy post on December 13, thanking the KPC for providing the “medical care and support she needs.”

The family even said they remained hopeful about Janet Wanja beating cancer. “We sincerely thank the public for their encouraging words and support and prayers as we remain hopeful for Wanja’s swift recovery,” wrote the former champion’s brother. Hence, there’s a good chance even Janet Wanja was caught off-guard after losing their loved one.

“My condolences to family, friends and Kenya 🇰🇪,” one fan commented in solidarity with the shattered family members. “We have lost a champ. Fare Thee well, Janet Wanja,” added the netizen. Janet Wanja inspired her team until the moment she fell ill and fans believe her contribution will be forgotten. “May Her soul Rest in Peace. (Gone but will never be forgotten),” commented another volleyball enthusiast.

Everyone came together to help Janet Wanja defeat cancer. Besides taking her former club, Kimani also mentioned others who helped. “Special thank you to all our friends, Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF), National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) and Football Kenya Federation (FKF),” wrote the volleyball icon’s brother. And even though she is no more, her legacy will continue to inspire the coming generations of Kenyan players.