Sizekhaya wins South Africa’s National Lottery licence, replacing Ithuba Holdings

Sizekhaya Holdings as the new operator of South Africa’s National Lottery and Sports Pool, following a highly competitive and controversial bidding process.

Sizekhaya becomes the fourth company to be awarded the national lottery license, succeeding Ithuba Holdings, whose tenure will come to an end on 31 May 2025. Ithuba has held the lucrative multi-billion-rand licence since 2015.

The appointment was confirmed by Trade and Industry Minister Parks Tau, who shared the news on social media. He stated that the National Lotteries Commission (NLC) had submitted a report on 26 May confirming the successful conclusion of negotiations with Sizekhaya Holdings.

This decision follows a prolonged and contentious selection process involving eight competing bidders. Earlier this year, Tau had proposed issuing a one-year temporary licence, but legal action from one of the unsuccessful bidders halted that plan. The North Gauteng High Court subsequently ruled that a permanent license holder must be named, leading to Wednesday’s announcement.

The new licence will span eight years, although it remains unclear when Sizekhaya will officially take over operations.

Sizekhaya Holdings includes Goldrush Group as a key stakeholder. Goldrush, a subsidiary of JSE-listed Goldrush Holdings, confirmed its 50% ownership in Sizekhaya and the awarding of the licence in a SENS announcement on Tuesday.

While the transition timeline is yet to be confirmed, this marks a major shift in South Africa’s lottery landscape, closing Ithuba’s decade-long run and ushering in a new era under Sizekhaya’s leadership.