Senamile Masango, a celebrated nuclear scientist, world energy leader, entrepreneur and Africa’s first woman to form part of an African-led team conducting experiments at the European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN), died in hospital after a short illness on Sunday, February 9.
The Chairperson of the Human Resource Development Council (HRDC), Deputy President Paul Mashatile, has described the late pioneering nuclear scientist, Ms Masango, as someone who was a beacon of hope for many young people, especially women. He paid tribute to Ms Masango, after receiving the sad news of the passing of South Africa’s first Black nuclear scientist, and a member of the HRDC.
Ms Masango, who was born in Nongoma, in northern KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), was 37 years old.
“Her passion for developing critical skills among the population and women in science, in particular, will be sorely missed,” the Deputy President said. “Masango, a PhD candidate, was a trailblazer in the field of nuclear science, she was widely respected for her groundbreaking research particularly at the European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN).”
Her achievements were a source of pride, as she became the first African woman to conduct experiments at CERN. Ms Masango’s brilliance gained international recognition when she received the prestigious Women in Science Award in 2022.
Mr Mashatile noted that her influence extended beyond her scientific accomplishments, as she was also a visionary entrepreneur. She served as the founder and Executive Chair of Mphathisithele Consulting, an energy consulting firm. She also served on several public sector science bodies including the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa) and recently became a member of the HRDC.
Due to her groundbreaking work in empowering women through science, she has received numerous local and international honours. These include being recognised as one of the 50 Global Inspirational Women of 2020 and being named a finalist for the Women in Tech Global Awards in 2021. Despite her youth, Ms Masango made a significant contribution to the advancement of science and the development of essential skills for the country.
“On behalf of government and the HRDC, we wish to convey our deepest condolences to the Masango family, her immediate community, and the science fraternity at large. May her soul rest in eternal peace,” said Deputy President Mashatile.
“Her establishment of Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) and her advocacy for greater representation and opportunities for women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields have made a significant impact.”
The Office of His Majesty the King Misuzulu KaZwelithini of the Zulu nation, also paid his tribute to the renowned nuclear scientist.
He said Ms Masango came from rural Nongoma, which is the traditional seat of the Zulu monarchy in northern KZN.
“On behalf of the Zulu nation, I offer my deepest sympathies to your family. May you find comfort in the knowledge that Masango’s impact will continue to inspire many. We stand with you in mourning, and we pray that her soul rests in eternal peace,” King KaZwelithini said on Monday.
Former Public Protector and the Law Faculty Trust Chair in Social Justice and Law Professor at Stellenbosch University, Professor Thuli Madonsela said she was “exceedingly” shocked and saddened by the news of the passing of Ms Masango.
Professor Madonsela said Ms Masango was a friend of the Centre for Social Justice at Stellenbosch University and a tireless supporter of the Action4Inclusion initiative aimed at eradicating student debt as a barrier to higher education.
“Heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and colleagues. May her kind soul rest in peace,” Professor Madonsela said.
Related Topics: