Ithuba Holdings named interim National Lottery operator in South Africa for one year

The Government of South Africa has confirmed the appointment of Ithuba Holdings (RF) (Pty) Ltd as the temporary operator of the National Lottery and Sports Pools for a period of 12 months, effective 1 June 2025. This decision was announced by the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau, in an official government statement issued on Saturday.

According to the Department, this temporary appointment ensures the continued operation of the National Lottery during the transition period between the end of the current (third) licence and the start of the next (fourth) licence, which will be held by Sizekhaya Holdings (RF) (Pty) Ltd starting 1 June 2026.

“In line with advice from the National Lotteries Commission, I have authorised the appointment of a temporary licensee in terms of Section 13B of the Lotteries Act, 1997,” said Minister Tau.

The Minister stated that successful negotiations were concluded with Ithuba Holdings, and a temporary licence agreement has been signed to allow the company to continue operating the lottery and sports pools over the next year.

The announcement follows recent legal developments, including a High Court ruling on 21 May 2025, which questioned the validity of the Temporary Licence Request for Proposal (RFP). While the court expressed concerns about the RFP process, it acknowledged that the continuation of the National Lottery serves the public interest, especially in funding charitable and developmental causes.

Minister Tau confirmed that he has appealed the judgment, but noted that another court ruling on 30 May 2025 upheld his authority to appoint a temporary operator.

“Given the legal context and the Commission’s advice, I proceeded with the urgent appointment to ensure uninterrupted National Lottery operations and the continued support for good causes,” the Minister stated.

The Government of South Africa emphasised that this interim measure is essential to maintain the integrity and continuity of lottery services until Sizekhaya Holdings formally assumes its role as the fourth national operator in 2026.