Advertisement

Ruto donates Ksh500k to family of departed volleyball star Wanja

Ruto donates Ksh500k to family of departed volleyball star Wanja
President William Ruto addresses Cabinet and principal secretaries at State House on November 19, 2024. PHOTO/@WilliamsRuto/X
Listen to This Article Enhance your reading experience by listening to this article.

President William Ruto has given a cash donation of Ksh500,000 to the family of departed volleyball legend Janet Wanja.

In a statement during a requiem ceremony on Thursday, January 2, 2025, at the Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani Indoor Arena, Ruto noted that Wanja was a gifted and entertaining volleyball star.

“Janet Wanja was a gifted and entertaining volleyball star. She was arguably one of the finest sportswomen who broke barriers to beat records,” Ruto observed.

“Wanja was humble yet a tireless giant whose mental strength and discipline were unmatched. She was focused, selfless and team-oriented. Kenya is lucky to have had such a great lady who served with honour, zeal and dedication.”

During the ceremony, the Sports Ministry equally donated another Ksh500,000 to offset any deficits in the organizing of the late volleyball star’s send-off.

Burial ceremony

According to the family of Wanja, the volleyball legend will be laid to rest in a private ceremony at the Lang’ata Cemetary in Nairobi on Friday, January 3, 2025.

Janet Wanja
Janet Wanja. PHOTO/@WilliamsRuto/X

Renowned as one of the best setters in the country, Wanja succumbed on Friday, December 27, 2024, to gallbladder cancer after a long battle with the illness.

Her untimely death was announced by the Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF), where she operated for the last two decades.

Uhuru’s condolences

“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.” KVF President Charles Nyaberi stated.

The volleyball star was equally mourned by former president Uhuru Kenyatta who described her as more than an athlete.

Uhuru also described Wanja as a trailblazer in Kenyan sports who inspired countless young athletes through her exceptional talent, dedication, and leadership on and off the court.

Janet Wanja
Deceased volleyball star Janet Wanja. PHOTO/@4thPresidentKE/X

“Janet Wanja was not just a great athlete; she was a symbol of strength, hard work, and commitment. Her story motivated many young players, and her legacy will always be remembered by sports fans across the country,” Uhuru said.

Adding: “To her family and the sports community, may the Almighty God give you strength and comfort during this tough time of grief. Janet’s inspiring life reminds us to always aim for excellence in everything we do.”

Wanja’s star shone when she played at the National Schools Champions for Mukumu before kicking off her illustrious club career with KCB then shifted sides to Kenya Pipeline.

In 2024, Wanja became the Malkia Strikers Team Trainer, guiding the team to the Paris Olympics and the World Challenger Cup in the Philippines.

Author Profile

For these and more credible stories, join our revamped Telegram and WhatsApp channels.
Advertisement