20/06/2025
Sizekhaya Holdings (RF) (Pty) Ltd is a South African consortium that was awarded the Fourth National Lottery and Sports Pools Licence by the South African Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) in May 2025. The company, led by KwaZulu-Natal businessmen Moses Tembe and Sandile Zungu, is set to operate the National Lottery and Sports Pool for an eight-year term starting June 1, 2026, replacing the previous operator, Ithuba Holdings. The tender, valued at approximately R180 billion, has drawn significant attention due to its scale and controversies surrounding the bidding process.
HISTORY
Sizekhaya Holdings was registered on January 26, 2024, and emerged as the successful bidder for the National Lottery and Sports Pools Licence after a competitive process involving eight companies. The announcement was made by Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau on May 28, 2025, following negotiations with the National Lotteries Commission (NLC).
The selection process faced delays and legal challenges, including a Pretoria High Court ruling that set aside a temporary licence decision and mandated the announcement of a new operator by May 28, 2025.
OPERATIONS
Sizekhaya Holdings is tasked with overseeing lottery ticket sales, prize payouts, and contributions to the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund (NLDTF), which supports community development initiatives across South Africa. The consortium has partnered with Genlot, a technology company with a 19% global lottery market share, to enhance ticket sales, staff onboarding, and equipment management.
OWNERSHIP AND LEADERSHIP
The consortium is led by prominent KwaZulu-Natal businessmen Moses Tembe and Sandile Zungu. The Goldrush Group, a subsidiary of JSE-listed Goldrush Holdings, initially held a 50% stake in Sizekhaya but reduced its ownership to 40% to comply with lottery licence regulations.