President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Dr Ngobani Johnstone Makhubu as Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (SARS) for a period of five years, effective from 1 May 2026. This appointment marks a significant moment for South Africa’s fiscal administration and broader economic trajectory.
The South African Institute of Taxation (SAIT) has welcomed the appointment of Dr Makhubu, describing him 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 CEO, Professor Keith Engel, said the appointment is an optimal choice for taking the country forward, noting that Dr Makhubu has been closely involved in shaping SARS’s strategic direction since 2020.
Background and Experience
Dr Makhubu has served as SARS Deputy Commissioner: Taxpayer Engagement and Operations since 2023 and has a professional background that spans multiple industries and operational perspectives, making him well-suited to lead one of South Africa’s most complex and important public institutions. 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.
Reactions and Congratulations
The Association for the Advancement of Black Accountants of Southern Africa (ABASA) and the African Tax Administration Forum have congratulated Dr Makhubu on his appointment. ATAF Executive Secretary, Mary Baine, said Dr Makhubu assumes the Chairmanship of ATAF at a defining moment, when the stakes of effective African tax governance have never been higher, and the role of continental leadership has never been more important.
ActionSA’s Alan Beesley added that Dr Makhubu has served in a senior leadership role within SARS since 2016, and his experience will be valuable in his new role. President Cyril Ramaphosa has also congratulated Dr Makhubu on his appointment, saying the change in the leadership of SARS shows how sound succession planning contributes to the capability of the state.
For more information on the South African Revenue Service, visit the SARS website. The National Treasury also provides valuable information on South Africa’s fiscal administration and economic trajectory.
Some of the key challenges that Dr Makhubu will face in his new role include:
- Managing the country’s debt while expanding the tax base
- Strengthening compliance and reducing tax evasion
- Further professionalising taxpayer services and improving customer experience
As Dr Makhubu takes on his new role, he will be expected to build on the foundations laid by his predecessor, Edward Kieswetter, and take SARS to the next level in terms of efficiency, effectiveness, and service delivery.
