South Africa’s National Lottery is heading for a major shift. As Ithuba’s licence officially ends on 31 May 2025, concerns are growing about what this means for Lotto ticket sales. With millions of people playing weekly, the transition to a new operator has sparked uncertainty across the country.
So, what can South Africans expect next week?
Why the End of Ithuba’s Licence Matters
Ithuba has been the official National Lottery operator since 2015. It managed everything from ticket distribution to prize payouts and helped build trust in the lottery system. But as its licence expires, many are wondering how the change will affect access to tickets and whether regular draws will continue without interruption.
A poorly handled transition could lead to system delays, offline terminals, or disrupted ticket sales. For a lottery system that runs like clockwork, even a small hiccup could shake public confidence.
New Operator to Step In — Will Lotto Ticket Sales Continue?
According to the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC), a new operator has been chosen to take over on 1 June 2025. As reported by The Citizen, the company is expected to assume full control immediately after Ithuba’s contract ends.
Government officials have promised that Lotto ticket sales will continue without interruption. However, system upgrades or integration delays may still cause short-term issues in some areas.
For now, South Africans are advised to monitor announcements from the National Lottery’s official website for updates.
Retailers and Online Sellers Brace for the Shift
Retailers across the country — from supermarkets to corner stores — rely heavily on Lotto ticket sales. A delay in activating terminals or updating systems could hurt both their sales and customers hoping to enter weekly draws.
Digital platforms, including bank apps and online lottery services, are also preparing for technical changes. With more players shifting to online ticket purchases, it’s essential that the transition is smooth on both physical and digital platforms.
What South Africans Should Know Next Week
Here’s a quick summary of what players can expect in the week following Ithuba’s departure:
- Ticket Sales: Lotto tickets should still be available from 1 June, but players may experience brief delays as systems update.
- Draws: Lotto, PowerBall, Daily Lotto, and Lotto Plus draws are scheduled to continue as planned.
- Prize Claims: Players with winning tickets bought before 31 May can still claim their prizes through Ithuba’s regular process. The outgoing operator has confirmed that all valid claims will be honoured.
To avoid last-minute disruptions, players are encouraged to buy their tickets early before the licence handover on 31 May.
Ithuba’s Legacy and the Future Ahead
During its decade of service, Ithuba paid out more than R25 billion in prizes and supported many community projects through the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund (NLDTF). Its departure marks the end of an era.
While the incoming operator promises to continue the tradition, the next few days are critical. A smooth transition will help maintain momentum and protect the reputation of the National Lottery. Any major issues could put Lotto ticket sales at risk and shake public confidence.
Final Thoughts: A Crucial Week for South Africa’s Lottery
Next week is not just another week for South African lottery players — it’s a turning point. The end of Ithuba’s licence signals a new chapter, and the way this transition is handled will affect millions.
For now, all eyes are on 1 June. Whether you’re a hopeful jackpot winner, a retailer, or an online player, staying informed and prepared is the best way to navigate this historic change in Lotto ticket sales.
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