News24 | R78m Lotto jackpot: Self-employed woman claims her share, 2nd winner urged to come forward

Lotto operator Ithuba has urged the second winner to come forward and claim their winnings.

• A self-employed woman from Johannesburg claimed her half of the R78 million Lotto jackpot, bought for R30 using the quick pick method.
• She plans to use her winnings to purchase a home, buy a car and invest in her business by acquiring industrial machinery.
• The second winner, whose ticket was purchased via a banking app with a R200 wager, has yet to come forward, despite being notified by their bank.

A self-employed woman who was one of two winners of the R78 million lotto jackpot said she was eager to elevate her business and purchase a family home.

The winner came forward to claim her half of the money from draw number 2 551, held on Wednesday, 18 June.

Meanwhile, Lotto operator Ithuba has urged the second winner to come forward and claim their winnings.

According to Ithuba, the self-employed woman purchased her winning ticket at a superstore in Johannesburg, spending R30 and using the quick pick selection method.

“I was in shock and complete disbelief when I realised I had won,” she exclaimed.

“I couldn’t wait to share the news with my husband – it’s a moment that will stay with us forever.”

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With her winnings, she plans to prioritise buying a home and a car, along with expanding her business.

“I’m excited to grow my business and purchase an industrial machine that will really elevate what I do,” she said.

Ithuba CEO Charmaine Mabuza congratulated the winner, saying: “We’re thrilled to see this self-employed South African woman’s business ambitions take flight, thanks to her remarkable win. We wish her continued success in all her endeavours.”

Mabuza also called upon the second winner to claim their share of the jackpot.

The second winning ticket, purchased via a banking app with a R200 wager using the quick pick selection method, has yet to be claimed.

Although the winner’s bank has notified them of the prize, they have not come forward.

All winners of R50 000 or more are provided with free trauma counselling and financial advice. Additionally, all national lottery winnings are tax free.