Africa has suffered a blow and its chance to set history shattered following the sudden death of a man who would have become the first African to land in space.
South African DJ Mandla Maseko who was set to represent the continent after winning the opportunity in 2014 died in a motorbike crash.
In a statement, the family through Sthembile Shabangu, confirmed the same, adding that the funeral arrangements for the 30-year-old will be communicated later in the week.
Maseko had beaten one million other contestants from across the world to win the opportunity courtesy of Axe Apollo Space Academy and was among 23 winners.
He was also a private pilot with and a corporal with the South African National Defence Force and as well a celebrated motivational speaker.
According to family testimonies, he was also a community worker who served his people and an inspiration to many children across the country.
The date of the space trip was yet to be announced by the time of his death, reports the Cable News Network (CNN).
South Africans have taken to social media pour out their condolences to the family and friends of the deceased who even had a science building at the Gauteng Department of Education in the country named after him in 2016.
This article is made possible through a partnership deal with CNN
#HivisasaInternational