Dr Ngobani Makhubu welcomed as incoming SARS Commissioner

The South African Institute of Taxation (SAIT) has welcomed the appointment of Dr Ngobani Johnstone Makhubu as the new Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (SARS).

Makhubu's appointment was officially announced on Thursday and he takes over the role from outgoing Commissioner Edward Kieswetter on May 1 and will serve a five-year term.

SAIT CEO, Professor Keith Engel, said the appointment marks an important moment for South Africa’s fiscal administration and broader economic trajectory.

"We are confident that Dr Makhubu is an optimal choice for taking the country forward," Engel said.

Noting Kieswetter's contribution at SARS, Engel said much was accomplished during his tenure.

"We take note of the challenges ahead as we appear to have turned the corner in terms of managing the country’s debt while expanding the tax base," he said.

Describing Makhubu as a "seasoned public and private-sector executive with more than 17 years of senior leadership experience spanning tax administration, finance and organisational management," SAIT said Makhubu has served as SARS Deputy Commissioner: Taxpayer Engagement and Operations since 2023 and has been closely involved in shaping the organisation’s strategic direction since 2020.

"His professional background spans multiple industries and operational perspectives, making him well-suited to lead one of South Africa’s most complex and important public institutions," it stated.

The Association for the Advancement of Black Accountants of Southern Africa (ABASA) has also congratulated Makhubu on his appointment.

The African Tax Administration Forum has congratulated Makhubu on his appointment.

ATAF Executive Secretary, Mary Baine, said 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," she said.

ActionSA's Alan Beesley added that Makhubu has served in a senior leadership role within SARS since 2016.

"His tenure as Chief Revenue Officer, as well as prior roles as Chief Financial Officer and Chief Procurement Officer, positions him well to oversee SARS’s complex operational environment, strengthen compliance, and further professionalise taxpayer services," Beesley said.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has congratulated Dr Makhubu on his appointment.

Ramaphosa said the change in the leadership of SARS shows how sound succession planning contributes to the capability of the state. 

Ramaphosa expressed his appreciation and high regard for Commissioner Kieswetter’s “incisive and innovative leadership that has positioned SARS as a critical enabler of fiscal stability, social delivery, trade facilitation, and the enablement of domestic and foreign investment”.

IOL