Ithuba Lottery

Our Team

Board of Directors

ITHUBA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The composition of ITHUBA LOTTERY (RF) (Pty) Ltd’s Board of Directors reflects the company’s commitment to the principle that its greatest asset is the depth of knowledge, skill, and experience of its leadership. Each executive director contributes proven management expertise, strong business acumen, and governance experience acquired through service on the boards of prominent local and multinational organisations.

This collective strength ensures a robust and responsible governance structure—aligned with the principles outlined in the King Reports on corporate governance—and supports the strategic objectives of operating the South African National Lottery with integrity, accountability, and effectiveness during the temporary licence period.

Molefe Seth Phalatse – Chairperson and Director

Mr. Phalatse is a highly esteemed business leader with over 40 years of experience in corporate and executive management, spanning both international organisations and South Africa’s leading blue-chip companies.

With a deep understanding of the Lottery industry, Mr. Phalatse previously served as a Director of Uthingo, bringing invaluable insight to the sector. For the past ten years, he has played a pivotal role in guiding ITHUBA’s success as Chairperson, where his leadership has been instrumental in shaping the company’s growth. In addition to this role, he also serves as Chair of the Social and Ethics Committee, reinforcing ITHUBA’s commitment to governance, corporate responsibility, and ethical business practices

Charmaine Mabuza – Chief Executive Officer

Mrs. Mabuza is a distinguished business leader and the driving force behind ITHUBA’s success as CEO since the launch of the Third National Lottery Licence. Under her leadership, she has revitalized the South African National Lottery, setting new benchmarks in operational excellence and innovation. She has also spearheaded ITHUBA’s expansion across Africa and beyond, cementing the company’s reputation as a leader in the gaming industry.

Recognised for her bold and pioneering leadership, Mrs. Mabuza has played a transformative role in shaping the lottery sector. Her expertise is acknowledged internationally through her appointment to the World Lottery Association’s Illegal Lotteries and Betting Committee, where she contributes to industry-wide advancements. Her visionary approach has not only redefined the gaming landscape but also created meaningful social and economic impact.

William Woods Scott – Director

Mr. Scott is a highly experienced lottery and gaming expert with over two decades in the international gambling industry. With a background in managing global lottery and gaming operations, he has developed a deep understanding of financial structuring, commercialisation and best practices within the sector.

For the past seven years, he has been a key member of ITHUBA’s Board, contributing his expertise as a member of the Audit and Risk Committee. His strategic insight, combined with his financial acumen as a Chartered Accountant, makes him an invaluable asset to the organisation. Mr. Scott’s leadership continues to play a crucial role in shaping ITHUBA’s growth and success, ensuring the company remains at the forefront of the evolving gaming industry.

Mpho Edwin Baatjies – Director

Mr. Baatjies is a seasoned business strategist with a wealth of experience leading critical projects across Europe, South America, and the Middle East. A qualified Chartered Accountant and a registered member of the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA), he currently serves as the Group Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency, where he plays a key role in driving economic development, trade and investment initiatives for the province.


Beyond his corporate achievements, Mr. Baatjies is deeply committed to social empowerment, actively supporting youth development programs and philanthropic initiatives. For the past six years, he has been an integral member of ITHUBA’s Board, advocating for shareholder interests and contributing to the company’s remarkable success. His leadership extends beyond South Africa,as he also serves on the Board of ITHUBA Uganda Limited, overseeing operations for the country’s National Lottery Operator.

Thulisile Njapa Mashanda – Chair of Audit and Risk Committee, Director

Ms. Mashanda is a highly accomplished financial expert with over 20 years of experience in accounting, auditing, and financial management. As the founder of a respected accounting and auditing firm, she has built a distinguished career advising multinational corporations and parastatals both in South Africa and internationally.

Since the inception of ITHUBA, she has served as the Chairperson of the Audit and Risk Committee, ensuring rigorous financial oversight and maintaining a track record of clean, unqualified audit reports under her leadership. A registered auditor with the Independent Regulatory Board for Auditors (IRBA) and a member of the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA), Ms. Mashanda brings exceptional financial expertise to ITHUBA’s Board, playing a critical role in upholding transparency, governance and financial excellence.

Gillian Emily Moses – Director

Ms. Moses is a highly respected human rights advocate with over two decades of experience championing the rights of persons with disabilities and gender equality. Holding an Honours Degree in Social Planning and Development, she has been instrumental in shaping both provincial and national policies, including the Integrated Provincial Disability Policy and the National Strategic Plan on HIV, AIDS and TB. Her expertise extends to academia, where she was a key figure in establishing Disability Studies Programmes at the University of Cape Town and Leeds University.

Currently serving as the Acting Head of Administration for Disabled People South Africa (DPSA), Ms. Moses plays a crucial role in policy development and advocacy. As a Shareholder Representative and Management Liaison between DPSA and ITHUBA, she has been a vital contributor to fostering inclusion and representation within the organisation.