Pretoria: The National Lotteries Commission (NLC) has announced the launch of its comprehensive organisational turnaround strategy, set to be fully implemented over a six-year period. The strategy aims to modernise and streamline processes, enhance oversight mechanisms, and integrate fraud prevention measures as part of a broader effort to transform the commission’s operations.
According to South African Government News Agency, NLC Commissioner Jodi Scholtz addressed the media in Pretoria, outlining the commission’s commitment to addressing stakeholder concerns regarding funding delays and fraud prevention. Scholtz emphasized the development of a new grant application and management system designed to increase efficiency and impact.
Scholtz also highlighted the commission’s reparative measures programme, which aims to address harm caused by past maladministration and rehabilitate community infrastructure projects. These efforts will be guided by the Special Investigative Unit (SIU) report, community engagem
ent, and other relevant reports. The SIU, authorized by President Cyril Ramaphosa under Proclamation R32 of 2020, continues to investigate allegations of corruption within the NLC, with the investigation valued at approximately R1.4 billion in alleged losses.
The NLC is enhancing its grant funding processes to improve service experiences for applicants and grantees while engaging with the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition to expedite adjudications. The upcoming launch of Research-Based Funding (RBF) will focus on pressing societal needs, with the Eastern Cape province serving as a pilot for initiatives in food security and primary health care.
Scholtz also mentioned the ongoing interest in the appointment of the Fourth National Lottery Operator, emphasizing that public engagement on this matter will occur post-process completion by Minister Parks Tau. Scholtz concluded by reaffirming the NLC’s commitment to restoring trust and achieving operational excellence, acknowledging the journey’s challen
ges but expressing optimism in the team’s progress and dedication.