The sporting fraternity has been thrown into mourning once again after Kenya Lionesses player Bernadette Olesia passed on.
Her club, Northern Suburbs, confirmed the tragic news on Tuesday, August 15, 2023, saying Olesia died at a Nairobi hospital while undergoing treatment.
Her death comes days after the soccer fraternity lost one of their own, Raphael Asudi, a former Gor Mahia, Sofapaka, Bidco United, and Nairobi Stima midfielder.
Asudi collapsed and died while playing for Donholm Seniors at Thika Stadium on Sunday.
Northern Suburbs’ announcement
“It is with great sadness that we announce the demise of our captain, Bernadette Olesia, who succumbed to illness at Nairobi Women’s Hospital. We have lost a great player in the Kenya women’s rugby fraternity.
“The team is in shock and mourns this great loss. We will share more details regarding funeral contributions and her send-off after liaising with her family. Kindly keep her family in your prayers at this difficult time. May her soul rest in eternal peace,” Northern Suburbs confirmed.
KRU’s message
The club’s announcement was followed by a condolence message from the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU).
“It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we inform you of the death of Kenyan international Bernadette Olesia.
“Bernadette worked at the Shamas Rugby Foundation and played for her rugby club Shamas Rugby Foundation and the Northern Suburbs ladies team.
“She passed away on Tuesday, August 15, 2023, after falling ill and receiving treatment in the hospital. We extend our condolences to her family, friends, colleagues, and teammates. Further information around Bernadette’s funeral arrangements will be shared in subsequent communications,” the rugby governing body stated.
Olesia, who made her debut in 2018, was part of the Kenyan team that grabbed a ticket for the matches slated for Dubai after finishing second in the Rugby Africa Women’s Cup competition.
