Sol Phenduka questions R179 million PowerBall jackpot win

Sol Phenduka reacts to jackpot win

The announcement of a record-breaking PowerBall jackpot win has left South Africans buzzing, but it was broadcaster Sol Phenduka’s reaction that truly set social media alight.

Lottery operator Ithuba confirmed that a single ticket holder won a staggering R178,955,240 in the PowerBall draw held on Tuesday, 20 January 2026.

The lucky winner matched the numbers 2, 3, 16, 17 and 35, along with the PowerBall number 5, securing one of the biggest jackpots in the game’s history.

Two additional players who matched five numbers walked away with R425,827 each.

As excitement spread online, many users marvelled at the life-changing amount.

One social media user, @Lush_Beauty1, shared a screenshot of the announcement and wrote: “Imagine winning so much money 😭,” capturing the awe felt by many across the country.

However, the celebratory mood quickly shifted after Sol Phenduka weighed in.

Responding to the post on Thursday, 22 January 2026, the media personality posed a pointed question that sparked intense debate.

“In a country with so much corruption, they’ll give 179 million to a random?” he asked.

In a country with so much corruption , they’ll give 179 million to a random ? https://t.co/N4z7cGkxuh

— Thandubuntu (@Solphendukaa) January 22, 2026