Tanzania’s National Lottery expands as Ithuba extends retail and digital access nationwide
Approaching its first full year of public operations, the lottery brings games closer to communities and strengthens economic and social impact.
Tanzania.- Tanzania’s National Lottery is hitting a major growth milestone under Ithuba Tanzania, with games now available at licensed retail agents in cities and towns nationwide and digital access enabled through major platforms.
Approaching its first full year of nationwide rollout, and operating under an eight-year mandate as the licensed operator of Tanzania’s National Lottery, Ithuba is laying the groundwork for modernisation, nationwide expansion and long-term social and economic impact through 2033.
In April 2025, Ithuba began rolling out public operations across the country and Director Kelvin Koka highlighted the lottery’s economic and social potential.
“The National Lottery is set to become a key driver of the country’s economic growth and social progress, particularly through the taxes and commissions generated by gaming activities,” said Koka, according to the Daily News.
One of Ithuba’s first major initiatives was a strategic partnership with the Tanzania Posts Corporation (TPC) announced in 2025, placing lottery terminals and play slips in 207 post outlets nationwide, reaching both urban and some rural communities. The operator also collaborated with Mixx by Yas, HaloPesa and Selcom Tanzania, enabling users to buy tickets online or via mobile money.
Economic and social impact
Government officials have emphasised the lottery’s broader economic and social benefits. Deputy Minister of Finance Hamad Chande highlighted its role in supporting Tanzanians through broader participation and revenue generation.
Data from the Gaming Board of Tanzania shows that the sector is contributing substantial revenue and supporting employment, with more than TZS260.21bn (€101m) collected in four years under the board’s oversight. Ithuba, which began public operations in April 2025 with €18.5m in projected investments, is a key driver of this growth.
The combination of digital expansion, strengthened retail access and strategic partnerships has accelerated participation, broadened reach and helped rebuild confidence since the relaunch last year.
With this momentum, Tanzania’s National Lottery is emerging as more than just a game – it is reinventing itself as an accessible, inclusive and nationally impactful platform in 2026 and beyond.
