JOHANNESBURG - The recent draws of the PowerBall and PowerBall Plus lotteries have once again generated excitement and anticipation among South African players. On February 21, 2025, the results for the PowerBall were drawn: the main numbers were 02, 03, 15, 17, 42, with the PowerBall number being 05. For PowerBall Plus, the drawn numbers were 16, 21, 30, 34, 47, with the PowerBall being 18. Players across the nation, aged 18 and older, eagerly await the draws every Tuesday and Friday at 20:58, highlighting the lottery's role as more than just a game—it symbolizes hope and the potential for life-changing prizes.
The rules for participation are straightforward: players select five numbers from 1 to 50 and one additional PowerBall number from 1 to 20, with each ticket costing just R5. For those wanting to increase their chances, PowerBall Plus is available for R2.50, offering similar gameplay but with slightly different prizes. The thrill of winning captured many hearts famously during the historic draw on February 19, 2019, when one lucky ticket holder claimed the largest jackpot ever recorded: R232,131,750.69. Such immense winnings demonstrate the transformational potential of the lottery, drawing millions to participate.
Convenience plays a huge role, with tickets easily purchased through authorized retailers, the National Lottery’s official website, or via mobile apps like the National Lottery Mobile App. The rise of digital solutions has facilitated ticket purchases, transforming the experience from laborious to effortless. Players can also buy tickets using the USSD code 1207529#, making lotteries accessible to even the most remote participants. Such seamless participation reflects modern technology's integration with the lottery experience.
ITHUBA, the operator of the National Lottery, emphasizes economic empowerment through lottery ticket sales. Since its establishment, ITHUBA has injected billions of rands back to the local economy through commissions, directly impacting independent retailers, particularly those owned by black entrepreneurs and those situated within township areas. ITHUBA has paid out over R3.1 billion to retailers, significantly benefiting small businesses across South Africa. Charmaine Mabuza, CEO of ITHUBA, expressed her pride in this contribution, stating, "The National Lottery is a vehicle for economic transformation. By paying over R3.1 billion in commissions, we..." showcasing how the lottery supports local retailers and fosters community growth.
Retailers like Busisiwe Mpanza, owner of Charo’s Trading—a spaza shop based in Soweto—have seen her fortunes change dramatically since becoming part of ITHUBA's network. "Before becoming a National Lottery retailer under ITHUBA, my business was struggling... everything changed when I introduced the National Lottery machine," she shared. Mpanza's success allowed her to pay for her son's tuition at Damelin College and improve her family's quality of life. Her story is emblematic of how engaging with the National Lottery can uplift entire communities by promoting financial stability.
Beyond the excitement of winning, the National Lottery offers various support services for winners. Those who claim R50,000 or more receive complimentary trauma counseling to help manage sudden wealth's emotional impact. Financial advisors are also available, guiding winners to make informed decisions about their newfound wealth. It's also worth noting the tax-free status of these winnings, allowing winners to enjoy their entire prize without deductions—a significant factor contributing to the lottery's appeal.
The PowerBall and PowerBall Plus lotteries are just part of South Africa's vibrant lottery ecosystem, which includes games like Daily Lotto and Lotto Plus, ensuring ample opportunities for players to engage with hopes of winning. With each draw, the anticipation builds, reflecting broader societal hopes and dreams for prosperity and security. It's not merely numbers and chance but rather the embodiment of resilience, optimism, and dreams waiting to be realized.
Looking forward, the draw results will continue to captivate millions, uniting individuals from various backgrounds under the banner of hope. The National Lottery and its operator, ITHUBA, affirm their commitment to social consciousness and community upliftment. Alongside entertainment, they strive to reinforce the message of hope and possibility embedded within South Africa's rich cultural fabric.