Makhubu takes ATAF chair

Tshwane, South Africa – The African Tax Administration Forum has congratulated Dr Ngobani Johnstone Makhubu on his appointment as Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service, a move that also places him at the helm of the continental tax body from 1 May 2026.

Dr Makhubu’s appointment, confirmed in Pretoria on 2 April 2026, comes at a time when African tax authorities are facing mounting fiscal pressures, shifting global tax rules and growing expectations from citizens. He succeeds Professor Edward Kieswetter, who has been credited with steering SARS through a period of institutional reform while also serving as Chair of ATAF’s Council.

Under ATAF governance rules, the Commissioner of SARS automatically assumes the role of Chair of ATAF. This means Dr Makhubu will now guide the strategic direction of Africa’s leading platform for tax cooperation, knowledge sharing and domestic resource mobilisation.

ATAF Executive Secretary Mary Baine said the new Chair takes office at a crucial juncture for the continent. “Dr Makhubu assumes the Chairmanship of ATAF at a defining moment. A moment when the stakes of effective African tax governance have never been higher, and the role of continental leadership has never been more important.”

The forum noted that African tax administrations are working within a rapidly evolving environment marked by new international tax standards, increased fiscal demands and the need to broaden domestic revenue bases. Leadership at both SARS and ATAF, it said, carries significant weight for Africa’s development path.

Dr Makhubu brings more than 17 years of senior leadership experience across the public and private sectors. His background covers institutional strategy, revenue administration and organisational reform. He played a central role in shaping and implementing SARS Vision 2024, an initiative that delivered sustained revenue growth and improved voluntary compliance within South Africa’s tax system.

ATAF expressed confidence that his tenure will strengthen cooperation among member states, reinforce a member driven approach and ensure Africa’s interests are represented in global tax discussions.

The organisation also paid tribute to Professor Kieswetter for his tenure as Commissioner of SARS and Chair of ATAF. It described his leadership as transformative, noting that SARS became one of the most respected revenue authorities globally during his time in office. His contribution to the broader African tax ecosystem through ATAF, the forum said, will have a lasting impact.