daniel chigunwe
Sifelani Tsiko
Innovations Editor
Leading scientist and one of the country’s foremost industrial scientist and inventor, former Scientific and Industrial Research and Development Centre (SIRDC) chief executive and presidential adviser, Prof Robson Mafoti has died, a close associate said.
He was 74.
Dr Leonard Madzingaidzo, who succeeded him as Sirdic chief executive told The Herald on Wednesday that the eminent industrial chemist and holder of 100 patents – local and international died in India early today where he was receiving treatment for cancer.
Prof Mafoti retired from Sirdic in June this year.
“Prof Mafoti died this morning (Wednesday). I got a message from his wife at around 4am that our great and distinguished scholar had passed away,” Dr Madzingaidzo said.
“l am shocked and devastated by news of his demise. Prof Mafoti was a great scientist, mentor and leader who was committed to scientific and technological advancement of Zimbabwe.
“He worked hard to empower young scientists to be the best in whatever they did. He advocated high standards of research that met global standards. He did not settle for mediocrity.
“We have lost a great scientist and inventor of world class standards.”
Prof Mafoti’s global work experience covered research and development, patenting, intellectual property licensing, manufacturing and commercialisation of research outcomes.
He was a member of various boards that included Industrial Development Corporation, Zimbabwe Council of Higher Education, Chinhoyi University of Technology where he was chairperson of council among others.
In June 2019, President Mnangagwa appointed him to the 26 member Presidential Advisory Council (PAC).
Prof Mafoti was a recipient of the Robert Mugabe Commendation Award for service in Human Capital Development which was bestowed on him for outstanding leadership for transformative service in human capital development.
He was a holder of 48 patents issued by the United States patent office and several others issued by the European Union, Japanese, Mexican and Brazilian patent office.
He won international recognition for his administrative prowess.
Prof Mafoti held several roles with various local, regional and international bodies.
He was born in Hwedza on June 11, 1949.
Prof Mafoti is survived by his wife Ann Ntsoaki and children Fadzanayi, Muchaneta and Simphiwe.
Online Reporter