Janet Wanja’s name is etched in the history of Kenyan sports as one of the greatest volleyball players the nation has ever produced. It came as a shock to Kenyans when they learned she had been battling gallbladder cancer for a long time. She passed away on December 26, 2024.
Here is her story as told by WoK.
Early Life
The volleyball icon was born on February 24, 1984, in Nairobi, Kenya. She was the third-born in a family of five siblings. Her brother, Kevin Kimani, is a Mathare United midfielder.
Education
The Malkia Stars pacesetter attended Kahawa Primary School, where she excelled in both sports and academics. After her primary education, she joined Mukumu Girls High School in Kakamega, a school renowned for nurturing sports talents. It was here that her volleyball talent blossomed.
Family and Personal Life
She was in a relationship with a British national, Andrew Swearman, but the relationship ended rather acrimoniously. In 2017, she introduced another partner, a white man, but she kept further details private.
Illustrious Career
Wanja’s volleyball career began in high school, where she played as a setter. Her talent was evident and quickly attracted the attention of scouts. She was soon called up to join the national youth team.
In 2001, she was selected to represent Kenya in the All-Africa Games held in Abuja, Nigeria, marking a major milestone in her career. At just 17 years old, she impressed the world with her poise and exceptional playmaking abilities.
She began her professional career at Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB), where her skills were honed. She later joined Kenya Pipeline, where she was not only a key player but also served as a gym instructor. At Pipeline, she became a major force, helping the team dominate nationally and compete on the international stage.
She was a key member of the Kenya Women’s National Volleyball Team, Malkia Stars. Wanja represented Kenya at the 2004 Athens Olympics, where Malkia Strikers secured the 11th spot. She proudly wore jersey number 7.
In the 2007 African Volleyball Championship, Wanja was awarded the title of ‘Best Setter,’ helping Kenya secure its seventh continental title against Algeria. She also played a significant role in Kenya’s victory at the 2015 FIVB World Grand Prix, contributing to the team’s historic win.
Transition to Coaching
After retiring from active play, Wanja took up coaching for the Malkia Strikers during their preparations for the 2024 Paris Olympics, marking her return to the national team in a new capacity.
Illness
Reports of Janet Wanja’s illness were shared by her brother, Kevin, on December 9, 2024. According to him, the volleyball icon had been unwell for about four months prior to the announcement and was undergoing treatment at the time.
“Wanja, who was the Malkia Strikers trainer at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, has been diagnosed with gallbladder cancer and is currently undergoing treatment in Nairobi.
“On behalf of the family, we hereby request your emotional support during this difficult time as we pray for her quick recovery. We shall give further updates on her progress,” Kimani shared on social media platforms.
In the 2015 FIVB World Grand Prix, Wanja had been taken ill and missed some important matches. In an interview with the Standard newspaper, she revealed that she feared for her life.
“The doctors said that I had a bacterial infection in my stomach. At some point, I even thought I was going to die. Things were so tough for me, but I went through medication and I am now fine,” she told the publication.
Throughout her illness, Kenya Pipeline stood by her, covering all her medical bills.
Death
On December 27, 2024, Kenyans—and her fans around the globe—woke up to the heartbreaking news of Janet Wanja’s passing. She succumbed to gallbladder cancer, as confirmed by her brother Kevin Kimani.
From WoK, may her soul rest in peace, and may her family find comfort during this difficult time.
