On May 1, 2026, Dr Ngobani Johnstone Makhubu will officially take over as the Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (SARS), following the conclusion of Professor Edward Kieswetter’s contract on April 30, 2026. This appointment comes at a pivotal time as South Africa navigates various economic challenges.
Dr Makhubu brings over 17 years of senior leadership experience in both the public and private sectors. He has been with SARS since 2016, serving in various capacities, including Deputy Commissioner for Taxpayer Engagement and Operations since 2023. His extensive background also includes roles as Chief Procurement Officer and Chief Finance Officer.
During his tenure, Dr Makhubu has played a significant role in implementing the Vision 2024 strategy at SARS, which has achieved a compounded annual growth rate of 7.6% in revenue collections. This strategy has been crucial in enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of tax administration in South Africa.
Dr Makhubu’s leadership is expected to continue addressing the pressing challenges in the country’s economic landscape, particularly as the nation seeks to stabilize its fiscal environment amidst global uncertainties.
His appointment was made following a unanimous recommendation from a selection panel, highlighting the confidence in his capabilities to lead SARS effectively. President Cyril Ramaphosa noted that Dr Makhubu is a seasoned executive with a wealth of experience in tax administration and finance.
In addition to his role at SARS, Dr Makhubu will also serve as the Chair of the African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF), a position that underscores the importance of effective tax governance across the continent. Mary Baine, ATAF Executive Secretary, remarked on the significance of his leadership at this critical juncture.
Dr Makhubu holds a PhD in Leadership from the Albert Luthuli Leadership Institute at the University of Pretoria, awarded in 2024. His academic background complements his professional experience, reinforcing his qualifications for the role.
The appointment is viewed as a move towards continuity in leadership at SARS, which is essential for maintaining stability and fostering growth in South Africa’s tax administration system.
As Dr Makhubu prepares to assume his new role, the focus will be on enhancing voluntary compliance and addressing the challenges posed by recent economic disruptions, including significant revenue losses attributed to international conflicts.
Overall, Dr Makhubu’s leadership is anticipated to be a steady hand on the till, as he is well-regarded both within and outside of SARS, positioning him to navigate the complexities of South Africa’s fiscal landscape effectively.
