Empangeni man wins R69 million: children can pursue their dreams without worrying about adult responsibilities
A future filled with opportunity
"To think that I would one day see so many zeros in my bank account, it still feels like a dream,” said the winner.
Image: Unsplash
IN A heart-warming turn of events, a man from Empangeni, KwaZulu-Natal, has come forward to claim the life-altering R69,2 84, 942.70 PowerBall Plus jackpot from the draw held on September 23. The ticket was purchased with a modest R45 wager, featuring a manual selection, thereby turning an everyday purchase into a life-changing moment.
The winner, a devoted husband and father in his 50s, shared that he was still overwhelmed by the reality of his new fortune.
“I honestly couldn’t believe my eyes. To think that I would one day see so many zeros in my bank account, it still feels like a dream,” he said.
For him, this win is more than just financial freedom, it is a generational blessing.
“The burden of children having to take care of their parents while they only start attending to their own basic needs later in life ends with me. In my 50s, my wife and I have been raising our children in a rented home all our lives. Now we can finally own a home of our own, and I want to make sure my children will also have houses once they complete their studies and start working.”
He expressed heartfelt relief that his children would now have the peace of mind to pursue their dreams without being rushed into adult responsibilities.
“They must have the freedom to build the lives they want without the weight of providing for us, like I had to. Education will be their foundation, and I’ll make sure of that."
The winner also reflected on his elderly mother, who is over 80 years old.
“There is nothing more I can do for her now, but one thing I’ve always wished for, is to take her to a 5-star hotel. She deserves that experience, and I know she will love it.”
Despite his newfound wealth, the winner intends to continue working. He also revealed that he and his wife planned to travel together.
“We will start local, exploring South Africa, and then gradually travel internationally. But we will only do this from the interest earned on investments. I am going to take care of these winnings. They area blessing for my family, and I must preserve them.”
Charmaine Mabuza, the CEO of Ithuba, said: “This is such a heart-warming story. We are thrilled to see the PowerBall Plus jackpot transforming lives in such a meaningful way. With careful planning and investment, this win will benefit generations to come. That is exactly what we aim for at Ithuba - that our jackpots bring lasting, life-changing impact.”
As with all high-tier winners, the Empangeni winner will receive free trauma counselling and financial advice to help guide his journey.