Phuthuma Nathi urges shareholders to claim over R270m in unpaid dividends
Unclaimed Phuthuma Nathi dividends exceed R270m. Shareholders and deceased estates are encouraged to come forward to claim their funds.
Phuthuma Nathi, MultiChoice South Africa’s broad-based black economic empowerment (BBBEE) share scheme, is calling on shareholders, as well as families of deceased shareholders, to come forward and claim outstanding dividends that remain uncollected.
Since 2020, Phuthuma Nathi has run annual national campaigns aimed at locating shareholders with unclaimed dividends dating back to 2006. These efforts have already enabled the payment of more than R125m to rightful beneficiaries. However, despite ongoing outreach, more than R270m in dividends is still unclaimed. The organisation remains committed to ensuring that these funds reach their intended recipients.
Unclaimed dividends are a well-documented challenge in South Africa. Financial sector experts note that this often occurs when shareholders do not update personal or banking information, or when funds become payable to deceased estates but the relevant families are unaware of the outstanding amounts.
They emphasise that national awareness drives such as this play an important role in ensuring that empowerment schemes continue to deliver their intended value. For Phuthuma Nathi, this means ensuring shareholders and their families receive the benefits due to them.
Individuals who have not received dividends between 2006 and 2025, or those who believe they may be entitled to funds on behalf of a deceased shareholder, are encouraged to verify their details and initiate the claims process. Queries and claims can be directed to the Phuthuma Nathi support channels below:
- Call centre: 086 011 6226 (Monday to Friday, 7am – 6pm, excluding public holidays)
- WhatsApp: 011 321 5400
- Email: phuthumanathi@singular.co.za
Unclaimed dividends are administered by Phuthuma Nathi’s transfer secretary, Singular Systems. To process a claim, a FICA verification is required. This includes proof of identity, an up-to-date bank statement or official bank confirmation letter, and proof of address. Once verification documents have been submitted, valid claims are typically processed and paid within three to five working days. These checks are essential to protect shareholders and ensure that funds are paid securely to the correct individual or estate.
