South Africa’s First Black Nuclear Scientist, Senamile Masango, Dies at 37
Nicknamed the “Queen of Science,” Senamile Masango’s passing has come as a shock and a great loss to South Africa’s science community.
Senamile Masango died in the hospital on Monday, Feb. 9, 2025.
Photo shared on LinkedIn by Colleen Larsen.
Senamile Masango, South Africa's first Black nuclear scientist, has died at the age of 37 following an undisclosed illness. She passed away in a hospital on Saturday.
Masango, who hailed from Nongoma in KwaZulu-Natal, was a pioneer in African nuclear physics and a leading advocate for women in STEM. In February 2022, World University News dubbed her the “Queen of Science.”
Masango's death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from South Africa's scientific community and beyond. As the country's first Black nuclear scientist, Masango's remarkable achievements paved the way for future generations of scientists and inspired countless young minds," South Africa's Department of Science, Technology & Innovation shared on X.
"As we bid farewell to this extraordinary individual, we honor her memory by continuing to strive for excellence, equality and empowerment in the scientific community and beyond," they added.
Colleen Larsen expressed sorrow Africa and Middle East Gender Mainstreaming Award Masango's foundingIn June 2017, Masango made headlines after becoming the first African woman to conduct research at the European Organization for Nuclear Research in Switzerland, subsequently playing a key role in energy policy discussions within South Africa.
Phumzile Van Damme
Masango's passing marks a significant loss to the nation's scientific community. Her contributions to nuclear research and efforts to increase women's participation in STEM fields have had a lasting impact, ensuring that her influence will continue in academic and policy discussions.
