Sizekhaya has officially taken over operations of South Africa’s National Lottery, marking the beginning of a new era focused on innovation, transparency, operational excellence, and meaningful social impact.
Chief Operating Officer Fundi Sithebe confirmed that the transition, which culminated on June 1, follows approximately a year of preparation to ensure a seamless experience for players. The new operator has already made headlines with the first PowerBall draw under its management, producing a 128 million rand winner from KwaZulu-Natal.
“We started off with a bang,” Sithebe said, adding that the team aims to “go bigger and bigger and stronger.”
Restoring Trust Through Transparency
A central pillar of Sizekhaya’s approach is rebuilding public confidence. For the first time since 2016, lottery draws are being broadcast live on SABC1 and SABC2 at 9:00, allowing viewers to witness the mechanical generation of winning numbers.
“It’s important for us to show the country… there’s actually a machine that generates these numbers. It’s not somebody sitting in a dark room,” Sithebe explained.
The operator has also restructured game mechanics to improve player engagement. Changes include cascading jackpots and a revised number format that increases players’ odds of winning by approximately 30%.
“South Africans were getting tired of the lottery… the jackpot would carry over for 12, 14 weeks and they started asking: is it worth playing?” Sithebe noted. “We needed to stay true to our promises but make sure South Africans love and really enjoy a great lottery experience.”
Supporting Winners Beyond the Jackpot
Sizekhaya has implemented a comprehensive support system for prize claimants. For winnings exceeding 50,000 rand, winners must visit an approved payment center or regional office for ticket verification, including validation of purchase details and number accuracy.
Beyond administrative checks, the operator provides psychological counseling and financial planning guidance. “It’s a traumatic event—but traumatic in a good way,” Sithebe said. “Imagine waking up 50 million rands richer. The emotional process requires guidance.”
The 128 million rand PowerBall winner from KwaZulu-Natal recently underwent this full support process, which included counseling and wealth management planning. Sizekhaya emphasizes creating generational wealth rather than short-term spending, with funds released tax-free and in a lump sum only after all verification and support steps are complete.
Maximizing Social Impact
Sithebe described the National Lottery as “South Africa’s largest philanthropic engine,” stressing that operational improvements directly benefit the causes the lottery supports. Proceeds fund NGOs, schools, and community development projects nationwide.
“South Africa really needs the National Lottery to be the best that it can be so that we can see maximum returns going into our causes,” Sithebe stated.
Sizekhaya’s vision includes digital innovation to enhance player convenience, stronger retail engagement, and campaigns designed to make the lottery inclusive and relevant for a new generation of players.
As operations continue under the new management, the operator has pledged to maintain rigorous standards of accountability while expanding opportunities for both players and the communities that benefit from lottery proceeds.
