The Tanzania National Lottery is set to distribute up to Sh120 billion in prizes throughout 2025, creating over 2,000 jobs nationwide.

The announcement was made during a press briefing on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency in Dar es Salaam. The event introduced Ithuba, a South African company, as the new operator of Tanzania’s National Lottery.

Selected in May 2024 from a competitive pool of 10 applicants, Ithuba was chosen after an extensive search that began in July 2022.

Key government officials, including Deputy Minister of Finance Hamad Hassan Chande, representatives from the Gaming Board of Tanzania (GBT), and Ithuba's leadership team, attended the event.

Speaking at the ceremony, Ithuba Tanzania Director Mr. Kelvin Koka highlighted the lottery's transformative potential for the nation.
“Today marks the beginning of a new chapter for Tanzania — one that promises to empower individuals, uplift communities, and drive national development,” Koka stated, addressing an audience of media representatives and business stakeholders.

With an initial investment of $20 million (Sh50 billion), Ithuba plans to introduce world-class lottery games to Tanzania. The games will include a mix of draw-based formats and instant-win options, designed to provide life-changing opportunities for players while boosting the local economy.

The lottery's impact will be substantial, with the prize pool for 2025 reaching up to Sh120 billion. This level of distribution is expected to transform lives and create new opportunities for Tanzanians.

“At Ithuba, we’re not just launching a lottery; we’re creating a movement that will transform lives,” Koka added. “This is more than just a game — it’s about giving Tanzanians the chance to change their futures, support local businesses, and contribute to the country’s development.”

The Gaming Board of Tanzania will oversee the National Lottery, ensuring fairness, transparency, and integrity in all operations.

Every ticket purchased will not only offer players a chance to win but will also support community development. Half of the revenue from taxes and commissions will be directed towards sports initiatives, promoting national pride and healthy living.

The National Lottery is expected to generate significant business opportunities. Over 2,000 jobs will be created in the first year alone, with retail agents earning more than $6.6 million in commissions. Retailers and service providers will also benefit from increased foot traffic and business growth.

Additionally, a dedicated advertising budget of $3.5 million will ensure the lottery’s wide reach, offering media outlets exclusive opportunities to share winners’ stories and cover special events.

Ithuba, which also operates in South Africa and Uganda, secured an 8-year license to manage Tanzania’s National Lottery. The company’s long-term vision extends beyond the immediate launch, with a focus on sustainable growth.

“We are building a platform that will not only deliver exciting gaming experiences but also contribute to the long-term prosperity of Tanzania,” Koka concluded. “The National Lottery is here for the long haul.”

With life-changing prizes, accessible ticket platforms, and a focus on local development, the National Lottery under Ithuba Tanzania is poised to make a lasting impact on the economy and society.