Janet Wanja's touching eulogy from mother and brother Kevin Kimani
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Reading Time: 3min | Fri. 03.01.25. | 11:28
Wanja’s mother Sarah Mungai mourned her daughter as a kind, resilient girl with an extraordinary spirit
The family of the late Malkia Strikers’ setter Janet Wanja shared touching eulogies during the memorial mass held on Thursday 2 December at the Kasarani Indoor Arena.
Even in death, Wanja continued to write history. It was the first time such a service, more so for a sports personality was held at the iconic facility. The service was attended by many to celebrate the life of a player who had an illustrious career.
Wanja’s mother Sarah Mungai mourned her daughter as a kind, resilient girl with an extraordinary spirit. Her tribute painted a picture of a life lived with purpose, love, and unwavering determination.
“If I want to write a book about Wanja, I will write because I have stayed with her since I gave birth to her,” she said.
Mungai went on to describe Wanja as a unique girl with a kind heart. She shared a story that highlighted her daughter’s deep connection with people from all walks of life.
“When Wanja went to the streets, she even fit in with the street boys. On one occasion, I forgot to lock her car, but when she came back, she found it protected by street boys who declared that no one could touch Wanja’s car.
This respect exemplified the person Wanja was,” Mungai told the attendees.
Wanja’s quiet acts of charity further demonstrated her character.
“She used to visit orphans in children’s homes, but she always told me that she would not make it public. That is biblical,” Mungai said.
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At home, Wanja welcomed relatives and anyone in need, offering support until they could stand on their own. Her respect for family and her habit of calling her parents every morning stood as hallmarks of her devotion.
Reflecting on Wanja’s passion for volleyball, Mungai admitted she initially opposed it.
“I never wanted her to play volleyball. I used to remove her from the field and ground her in the house. However, Wanja’s determination won out,” she revealed, urging parents to encourage their children to use their God-given talents.
The final months of Wanja’s life were a difficult journey for the family.
“I have stayed with her for more than three months since she was diagnosed. When the doctor told me that it was impossible to do chemotherapy because of the extent of the cancer cells, I cried but I gave thanks to the Lord,” she recalled.
Wanja’s brother, Kevin Kimani a Mathare United midfielder also mourned her sister as a remarkable soul.
Kimani, a father of two noted that Wanja’s untimely death was a blow to his daughters who knew Wanja as their favourite aunt.
“My daughters make me feel very weak. They keep telling me that they miss Aunty Wanja. I tell them that Aunty is okay,” he said, his voice weak with emotion.
He spoke of the dreams and plans they shared, some of which remain unfulfilled.
“Do not worry, I got your back. I will work towards the things that we planned,” Kimani promised and vowed to honour her memory by continuing her legacy.
The ex-international footballer also celebrated Wanja’s achievements and the joy she brought to their lives.
“You were the GOAT of volleyball and the most amazing sister. You made us all proud,” he concluded.
Wanja passed away on Sunday 26 December after a battle with gallbladder cancer. She was aged 40. She played for Malkia Strikers for 15 years and was the team’s trainer during the Paris Olympics.
She was diagnosed with the disease shortly after coming from the Olympics.
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