Tributes continue to pour in for the first black nuclear scientist, Senamile Masango, who passed away yesterday at the age of 37. Masango passed away after a short illness at a hospital.

A TRAILBLAZER

Masango was born in Nongoma in KwaZulu Natal and obtained a bachelor's degree in physics and electronics from the University of Zululand. She went on to graduate with a master's degree in nuclear physics from the University of the Western Cape where she obtained her master's degree in nuclear physics cum laude in 2019. Masango made history as one of a few black female scientists to experiment at one of the world's largest centres for scientific research, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Switzerland, in 2017. Masango worked as a junior project engineer and she was a PhD candidate in nuclear physics at the University of the Western Cape before her passing, where she also served as a council member. Some of her achievements include the Women in Science Award in 2022. She also served on several public sector science bodies, including the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation Ltd and recently became a member of the Human Resource Development Council.

TRIBUTES

Deputy President Paul Mashatile paid tribute to Masango and described her as a beacon of hope for young people, especially women. "Her passion for developing critical skills among the population and women in science, in particular, will be sorely missed. A PhD candidate, Ms. Masango was a globally recognised nuclear scientist, esteemed energy leader and pioneering entrepreneur. As a trailblazer in nuclear science, she was widely respected for her groundbreaking research at, among others, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN),' Mashatile said.

The Deputy President added that Masango's global recognition was a source of pride as she became the first African woman to conduct experiments at CERN.

"On behalf of the government, 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 Mashatile.

Zulu King, Misuzulu KaZwelithini, also sent his condolences to Masango's family. He said Masango's passing was a tragedy that has not only affected you as her loved ones but has also left a profound void in the scientific community and our nation as a whole. Senamile Masango was a beacon of excellence and a trailblazer in nuclear science, whose contributions will forever be remembered. Her dedication to empowering women in STEM and her efforts to uplift underprivileged communities will remain a lasting legacy. She embodied the spirit of perseverance and progress, paving the way for future generations.' He added, "On behalf of the Zulu nation, I offer my deepest sympathies to your family. May you find comfort in the knowledge that her impact will continue to inspire many. We stand with you in mourning and we pray that her soul rests in eternal peace. Hambe kahle, Senamile Masango.'