South Africans who regularly play the Lotto could soon notice major changes in how tickets are bought, how jackpots work and even where games are available.
From 1 June 2026, Sizekhaya Holdings officially takes over as South Africa’s fourth National Lottery and Sports Pools operator, replacing Ithuba Holdings.
The new operator, backed by the Goldrush Group consortium, says it plans to modernise the lottery while making it easier and faster for people across the country to participate.
What’s changing in the National Lottery
One of the biggest issues Sizekhaya wants to address is what it calls “jackpot fatigue”.
This happens when jackpots roll over repeatedly for weeks, growing larger and larger while many players begin feeling like winning is impossible.
The company says it plans to adjust some game structures to allow for more frequent payouts and smaller wins, while still keeping the possibility of massive jackpots alive.
The goal is to make the Lotto feel more rewarding for everyday players, rather than focusing only on giant rollover prizes.
Buying Lotto tickets through banking apps
A major digital upgrade is also coming. Sizekhaya plans to improve integration with South African banking apps, allowing players to buy Lotto tickets more easily from their phones.
This could help reduce the long queues often seen at retail outlets before major draws.
The new system will also introduce QR code ticket generation. Players will be able to choose their numbers on a mobile device and simply scan the code in-store to complete payment quickly.
The operator also wants to expand access to lottery services in areas that previously had limited infrastructure.
To do this, Sizekhaya has partnered with global lottery technology provider Genlot.
Instead of relying only on large fixed Lotto terminals, the company plans to roll out lightweight handheld devices.
These devices will allow spaza shops, tuck shops and small local traders in rural areas and townships to legally sell Lotto tickets.
The move is expected to improve convenience for players while also creating additional income opportunities for small businesses.
Scratchcards are making a comeback
Traditional scratchcards are also set to return to stores across South Africa.
These instant-win games were previously popular among players looking for smaller, immediate prizes instead of waiting for draw results.
At the same time, Sports Pools games are expected to receive upgrades aimed at attracting more sports-focused players.
But one of the biggest long-term changes may happen behind the scenes.
As part of the new eight-year licence agreement, Sizekhaya will gradually transfer its technology systems, software and operational expertise to the South African government.
The process is designed to help South Africa eventually move toward a fully state-run National Lottery system by 2034.
