President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Dr Ngobani Makhubu as the new Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (SARS) for a five-year term, effective from 1 May 2026.
The appointment follows a unanimous recommendation by a selection panel convened by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana. Makhubu, who has served as Deputy Commissioner for Taxpayer Engagement and Operations since 2023, will succeed current Commissioner Edward Kieswetter, whose contract ends on 30 April 2026.
In a statement, the Presidency described Makhubu as a seasoned executive with more than 17 years of senior leadership experience across both the public and private sectors. His expertise spans tax administration, finance, operations management, and commercial strategy, with experience in industries including fast-moving consumer goods, mining, power generation, and public revenue services.
Makhubu has been closely involved in shaping SARS’ strategic direction since 2020 and played a key role in implementing the organisation’s Vision 2024 strategy. According to the Presidency, this strategy contributed to revenue collection growth at a compounded annual rate of 7.6%, while voluntary compliance increased by 3.4 percentage points.
“President Ramaphosa congratulates Dr Makhubu on his appointment to lead the revenue service as the institution that provides the financial resources necessary for the government to function, fund infrastructure, and pay for social services,” the Presidency said.
Ramaphosa added that the leadership transition at SARS reflects the importance of strong succession planning in strengthening state capacity.
Compiled by Clement Matroos
