Janet Wanja’s life story is one of triumph, resilience, and inspiration. Her remarkable contributions to Kenyan volleyball, both as a player and a coach, continue to influence aspiring athletes.
Born on 24 February 1984 in Nairobi, Kenya, Janet Wanja grew up in a family of five siblings as the third-born child.
She shared a close relationship with her brother, Kevin Kimani, a midfielder for Mathare United, and was often seen supporting him during matches and celebrations of his achievements.
Education and sporting beginnings
Wanja attended primary school, where she excelled both academically and in sports. Her secondary education at Mukumu Girls High School in Kakamega marked the turning point in her athletic journey.
Renowned for its exellence in sports, the school provided Wanja with the platform to refine her volleyball skills and gain recognition as a promising setter.
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Personal struggles
While Wanja largely kept her private life away from public scrutiny, she once shared her experience of being in an abusive relationship.
Over time, she navigated through relationships that did not last.
A shining career in volleyball
Wanja’s volleyball career began to flourish in high school, leading to her selection for Kenya’s national youth team.
Her international debut came at just 17 years old during the 2001 All-Africa Games in Abuja, Nigeria, where her talent on the court garnered widespread admiration.
Her professional career kicked off at Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) before she joined Kenya Pipeline, where she established herself as a key player and served as a gym instructor.
Wanja’s contributions were instrumental in Kenya Pipeline’s domestic dominance and success in international competitions.
A vital member of the Kenya Women’s National Volleyball Team, Malkia Stars, Wanja represented Kenya at the 2004 Athens Olympics, where the team secured an 11th-place finish.
In 2007, Wanja was recognised as the ‘Best Setter’ at the African Volleyball Championship, where Kenya defeated Algeria to clinch the title.
She was also a critical player in Kenya’s landmark victory at the 2015 FIVB World Grand Prix, further cementing her legacy in the sport.
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From player to coach
Following her retirement as a player, Wanja transitioned to coaching. She returned to the national team in this new role, helping Malkia Strikers prepare for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Health challenges
In December 2024, her brother Kevin revealed that she had been battling a gallbladder cancer for several months. During this time, Kenya Pipeline supported her by covering her medical expenses.
READ: President Ruto, sports fraternity mourn fallen volleyball star Janet Wanja
On 27 December 2024, the nation mourned the loss of Janet Wanja. She succumbed to gallbladder cancer, leaving behind a profound legacy in the volleyball community and beyond.
A lasting legacy
Janet Wanja’s life story is one of triumph, resilience, and inspiration. Her remarkable contributions to Kenyan volleyball, both as a player and a coach, continue to influence aspiring athletes.