Winning the Powerball in South Africa is the ultimate dream for many people — that single moment where your life can change forever. In 2025, this dream became reality for one lucky player who hit the multi-million-rand jackpot!
What Is Powerball in South Africa?
Powerball is one of the most popular lottery games in South Africa, operated by Ithuba National Lottery. It offers players a chance to turn small investments into life-changing fortunes by matching the correct numbers drawn twice a week.
A Brief History of Powerball in South Africa
Launched in October 2009, Powerball quickly became a household name. Its unique format, huge prizes, and affordable ticket prices have made it one of South Africa’s favorite games of chance.
How the Powerball Lottery Works
Each Powerball draw consists of five main numbers (from 1 to 50) and one Powerball number (from 1 to 20).
To win the jackpot, all six numbers must match the draw.
There’s also Powerball Plus, an optional add-on game that gives players a second chance to win with the same set of numbers.
Recent Powerball Jackpot Winner in South Africa
The latest Powerball jackpot winner made headlines across the nation. The player, from Gauteng, won an astonishing R121 million in September 2025 after purchasing their ticket via the Absa banking app.
The winner chose to remain anonymous but confirmed that they plan to invest, donate to charity, and ensure their family’s financial security.
Record-Breaking Powerball Jackpots
South Africa has seen several record-breaking wins:
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R232 million – the biggest Powerball win ever recorded, won in 2019 by a player from Cape Town.
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R158 million – another massive jackpot won in 2021.
These life-changing amounts continue to inspire millions of hopefuls across the country.
How to Play Powerball in South Africa
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Choose five numbers between 1 and 50.
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Choose one Powerball number between 1 and 20.
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Decide if you want to play Powerball Plus.
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Buy your ticket at an authorized retailer or online.
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Wait for the draw on Tuesdays and Fridays at 9 PM.
Winning Strategies and Tips
While Powerball is purely a game of luck, you can still play smart:
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Avoid using common combinations like birthdays.
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Play regularly but responsibly.
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Join syndicates to improve your chances without overspending.
How Winners Claim Their Prizes
Winners can claim prizes up to R2,000 at any retailer, while larger winnings must be claimed at Ithuba regional offices.
For jackpots, winners go through identity verification and banking processes to ensure safe and legitimate payouts.
Do Powerball Winners Pay Tax in South Africa?
Good news — lottery winnings are tax-free in South Africa! However, if you invest or earn income from your winnings, those earnings may be subject to tax later.
Impact of Powerball on South African Lives
Powerball has transformed lives — from ordinary workers to small business owners, each story is unique. Some winners open businesses, others invest in education or housing, proving that the jackpot can spark real change.
How Ithuba Supports Communities
Ithuba, the licensed National Lottery operator, uses a percentage of proceeds to fund charitable and social projects — supporting education, health, and community development nationwide.
Powerball Myths vs Facts
Myth: Some numbers are luckier than others.
Fact: Every combination has the same odds.
Myth: Winners are mostly from certain provinces.
Fact: Winners are distributed across South Africa.
The Future of Powerball in South Africa
As digital adoption grows, more players are turning to online play and banking apps for convenience and security. This trend has made Powerball more accessible than ever.
Conclusion
The story of the Powerball jackpot winner in South Africa reminds us that dreams do come true — but luck favors those who take the chance. Whether you play online or at a retail outlet, the next big win could be yours!
FAQs
1. When are Powerball draws held in South Africa?
Every Tuesday and Friday at 9 PM.
2. Can I play Powerball online?
Yes! You can play using Ithuba’s official website or banking apps.
3. What is the minimum jackpot amount?
It starts from around R3 million and rolls over until someone wins.
4. Are Powerball winnings taxed?
No, winnings are tax-free in South Africa.
5. How long do winners have to claim their prize?
Winners have 365 days from the draw date to claim their prize.
