SIU secures settlement with Minenhle Dlamini over NLC funds

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has secured a settlement agreement with media personality Minenhle Dlamini, who has agreed to repay R50,000 that she irregularly received from a National Lotteries Commission (NLC)–funded project.

The settlement forms part of the SIU’s ongoing investigation into the alleged misappropriation of NLC grant funding linked to the Mshandukani Foundation NPO. The funds repaid by Dlamini were received in 2016 and were originally allocated for activities related to the 2016 Rio Olympic Games Roadshow but were not used for their intended purpose.

In a statement issued on Monday, the SIU said its investigation found that the Mshandukani Foundation NPO received approximately R24.8 million from the NLC. The foundation acted as a conduit applicant through the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC). The SIU determined that the funds were subsequently distributed to various beneficiaries without lawful justification or in contravention of the conditions attached to the grant agreement.

Dlamini was identified as one of the recipients of the irregular payments. In terms of the settlement agreement, she has acknowledged that the funds were not lawfully due to her and has agreed to repay the full amount of R50,000.

SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago said Dlamini had cooperated fully with investigators throughout the process. “The settlement demonstrates the SIU’s commitment to recovering misappropriated public funds and ensuring accountability, regardless of the amount involved,” Kganyago said.

The SIU said the recovered money would be returned to the National Lotteries Commission and redistributed to lawful beneficiaries in line with the NLC’s mandate to support good causes.

Kganyago said the settlement with Dlamini was one component of a broader investigation. The SIU continues to pursue civil and criminal action against other individuals and entities implicated in the alleged scheme, including former NLC officials, board members and additional recipients of irregular payments.

The investigation into the NLC was authorised by President Cyril Ramaphosa through Proclamation R32 of 2020. The proclamation empowers the SIU to probe allegations of corruption, maladministration and unlawful conduct related to NLC grant funding.

In terms of the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996, the SIU may institute civil proceedings in the High Court or the Special Tribunal to recover losses suffered by the State. Where evidence of criminal conduct is uncovered, the matter is referred to the National Prosecuting Authority for possible prosecution.

The SIU said its primary objective remains the recovery of public funds and the restoration of financial losses incurred by the State.