Ithuba Holdings appointed as interim operator of South Africa’s National Lottery for 12 months, maintaining operations during transition to Sizekhaya Holdings in 2026.
In a strategic move to maintain the continuity of South Africa’s National Lottery, Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau has appointed Ithuba Holdings (RF) (Pty) Ltd as the temporary operator for a 12-month period starting June 1, 2025.
This decision ensures that lottery operations proceed seamlessly during the transition to Sizekhaya Holdings, the newly appointed fourth national lottery and sports pools operator, whose tenure begins on June 1, 2026.
Minister Tau emphasized the importance of this interim arrangement, stating, “I am pleased to report that I have concluded, on advice of the Commission, successful negotiations with Ithuba Holdings (RF) (Pty) Ltd and have signed a temporary licence Agreement for them to operate the National Lottery and Sports Pool for a period of 12 months with effect 1 June 2025.”
The appointment comes in the wake of a High Court judgment on May 21, 2025, which questioned the validity of the Temporary Licence Request for Proposal (RFP).
Minister Tau has appealed this judgment but noted that the court acknowledged the public interest in maintaining uninterrupted lottery operations.
A subsequent court ruling on May 30, 2025, affirmed the Minister’s authority to appoint a temporary licensee, reinforcing the legitimacy of the interim arrangement.
Ithuba Holdings has been the operator of the South African National Lottery since 2015, overseeing various games including Lotto, PowerBall, and Daily Lotto.
Under their management, 34% of lottery revenue is allocated to a central charitable distribution fund, supporting numerous social initiatives across the country.
This transitional phase underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring the stability and integrity of the National Lottery, safeguarding its role in funding worthy causes and contributing to South Africa’s socio-economic development.
