The African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF) has formally extended its warmest congratulations to Dr. Ngobani Johnstone Makhubu following his appointment as the Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (SARS).
According to ATAF, this appointment, effective May 1, 2026, carries profound significance that extends well beyond South Africa's borders. In accordance with ATAF's governance rules, Dr. Makhubu's new role as SARS Commissioner also confers upon him the position of Chair of ATAF, a role of continental importance.
In a statement marking the transition, ATAF highlighted that Dr. Makhubu takes over from Professor Edward Kieswetter, whose transformational leadership and guidance as Council Chair represent an admirable record and a legacy of note. As the incoming Chair, Dr. Makhubu will help set the strategic direction for Africa's foremost platform for tax cooperation, knowledge exchange, and domestic resource mobilisation.
A leadership vision for a defining moment
Speaking on behalf of the organisation, ATAF Executive Secretary Mary Baine remarked that Dr. Makhubu assumes the Chairmanship at a defining moment. She noted that the stakes of effective African tax governance have never been higher, and the role of continental leadership has never been more important. This sentiment reflects the organisation's broader view that Africa's tax administrations are currently navigating a rapidly shifting environment characterised by evolving global tax norms and intensifying fiscal pressures.
ATAF expressed high confidence in Dr. Makhubu's ability to meet these challenges, citing his distinguished record of more than seventeen years in public and private sector leadership. The organisation specifically pointed to his instrumental role in shaping and executing SARS's Vision 2024 as evidence of his capacity to drive systemic change. This landmark initiative delivered sustained revenue growth and meaningfully strengthened voluntary compliance, positioning him well for the demands of leading both a national revenue service and a continental forum.
Future-ready tax administrations across Africa
Under Dr. Makhubu's chairmanship, ATAF is confident that it will continue to deepen its member-driven approach and forge stronger collaborative ties among African tax administrations. The organisation aims to elevate Africa's voice in the ongoing reshaping of international tax governance, ensuring the continent's needs are addressed as global financial systems evolve.
While looking toward the future, ATAF also took this moment to deeply honour the exceptional tenure of Professor Edward Kieswetter. The organisation remains grateful for his service and vision, noting that through his leadership, SARS was transformed into one of the world's most admired revenue authorities and a model of innovation. ATAF looks forward to working alongside Dr. Makhubu to advance their shared mission of building strong, agile, and future-ready tax administrations across every corner of Africa.