Dream big: Lotto jackpot soars to R104 million

LOTTO frenzy has reached new heights as an estimated R104 million jackpot is up for grabs in Wednesday’s draw.

After last Saturday’s R98 million jackpot draw left players buzzing with anticipation, the stakes have climbed even higher, bringing with it a renewed wave of excitement across the country.

Mzansi’s biggest celebrities, including Moshe Ndiki, Celeste Ntuli, and Clement Maosa, joined the growing crowd at retail stores nationwide this past weekend to buy tickets, fuelling dreams of a life-changing win. On Wednesday night, as the jackpot swells, the hopeful buzz is set to intensify, with fans, friends, and families looking to become the nation’s next millionaire.

In the lead-up to the massive draw, Ithuba, South Africa's National Lottery Operator, has invited the nation to reflect on the humble R5 ticket that could change lives forever. Charmaine Mabuza, CEO of Ithuba, highlighted the significance of the affordable ticket price in today’s economy. “ Five to 10 years ago, R5 could go a long way, whether it was to buy a Kota at your local taxi rank, ice cream at your favourite fast-food restaurant, a packet of chips, or even taxi fare to town, but today R5 does not hold the same value,” Mabuza observed.

“But with Lotto, R5 holds the power to potentially bring you closer to your biggest dreams. Keeping our games affordable forms part of our commitment to ensure accessibility for all our aspiring multi-millionaires,” she added.

If won, the R104 million jackpot would make history as South Africa’s second-highest recorded Lotto prize, following the R110 million jackpot won by four lucky players in 2018. It would also surpass August 2024’s R100 million jackpot, setting a new benchmark for South Africa’s lottery players.

Mabuza also emphasised the convenience and accessibility of the Lotto, with players able to participate from a range of platforms, from traditional retail stores to online banking apps, the National Lottery website, and mobile app - “participants can play from home, office or on the go.”

Ticket sales for the R104 million draw will close at 8.30pm on Wednesday night and as always, all winnings are tax-free.

For those who dare to dream big, tonight’s jackpot offers an unmatched opportunity. As a reminder, players must be 18 years or older to participate and are urged to play responsibly.

The countdown is on as South Africa holds its breath. Will you be the next lucky multi-millionaire?