The family of Janet Wanja, a celebrated Kenyan volleyball player, has released details of her funeral program following her untimely passing after a courageous battle with cancer.

Wanja, a former Malkia Strikers star, captured the hearts of many with her dedication and achievements on the volleyball court.

She will be laid to rest on Friday, January 3, 2025, at Lang'ata Cemetery in Nairobi.

Funeral Arrangements

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The funeral proceedings will commence with a candle-lighting vigil on Tuesday, December 31, at Wanja’s residence at Vikam B Centre, Clay City, Kasarani, starting at 7 PM.

On Thursday, January 2, a requiem mass will take place at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani Indoor Arena, from 10 AM to 2 PM.

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Following the service, Wanja’s body will be returned to Montezuma Monalisa Funeral Home on Mbagathi Road for an overnight stay.

The burial on Friday, January 3, will be a private ceremony, attended by family members, close friends, and select dignitaries.

Tributes and Funeral Committee

Kevin Kimani, Wanja’s brother and a renowned footballer, shared an emotional tribute on social media, expressing his heartbreak over her death.

In one post, accompanied by a photo of Wanja with her siblings, Kimani wrote, "My soul bleeds?," and paired another with the song People Like You by Gramps Morgan.

The funeral committee, chaired by Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) president Charles Nyaberi, confirmed the arrangements.

Members of the committee include representatives from the National Olympic Committee of Kenya, the National Sports Council, and the government, alongside former national team players like Roseline Odhiambo.


Nyaberi clarified that earlier plans for a funeral service at Lang’ata High School were canceled, leaving the Kasarani memorial as the sole service before the burial.

A committee meeting scheduled for Monday at Sports View Hotel in Nairobi is expected to finalize the plans.

Wanja’s Legacy

Janet was a trailblazer in Kenyan volleyball, leaving an important mark both locally and internationally.

Her volleyball career began at Mukumu Girls High School, culminating in a professional debut with KCB women’s volleyball team.

She later joined Kenya Pipeline, where she played a pivotal role in securing four consecutive league titles between 2014 and 2017.

Internationally, Wanja was part of the Kenyan team that claimed the historic FIVB World Grand Prix title in Australia in 2015.


She also competed in multiple global tournaments, including two editions of the FIVB World Championship, three FIVB World Cups, and the 2004 Olympic Games.

Wanja’s contributions extended beyond her playing years. She served as a trainer for the Malkia Strikers during the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris and at the FIVB Challenger Cup in Manila, Philippines.