The South African Institute of Taxation (SAIT) has welcomed the appointment of Dr Ngobani Johnstone Makhubu as the next Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service.
Announced on 2 April 2026 in Pretoria, the appointment follows a unanimous recommendation by a panel convened by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, and chaired by former minister Nhlanhla Nene.
Dr Makhubu will take over from outgoing Commissioner Edward Kieswetter, beginning his five-year term on 1 May 2026. His appointment by Cyril Ramaphosa is in line with the SARS Act and forms part of a structured succession plan stemming from the Nugent Commission of Inquiry into governance at the revenue service.
The Presidency and SARS leadership say the transition reflects both continuity and an opportunity to strengthen the institution as it navigates an increasingly complex and digital tax environment.
Experienced leadership
Dr Makhubu brings more than 17 years of senior leadership experience across the public and private sectors. He has served as SARS Deputy Commissioner for Taxpayer Engagement and Operations since 2023 and has helped shape the organisation’s strategic direction since 2020.
He holds a PhD in Leadership, a Master’s in Business Leadership, as well as degrees in Electrical Engineering and Economics.
Strong backing from SARS and the industry
Outgoing Commissioner Kieswetter has welcomed the appointment, describing Dr Makhubu as “eminently qualified” and deeply familiar with SARS operations.
Kieswetter says he has worked closely with Makhubu and is confident he will deliver on the critical task of strengthening the state by ensuring effective revenue collection.
SAIT CEO Professor Keith Engel also congratulated Dr Makhubu, while acknowledging the progress made under Kieswetter’s leadership in rebuilding SARS.
Engel says while challenges remain, including managing national debt and expanding the tax base, there is confidence that Dr Makhubu is well positioned to take SARS forward.
READ: SARS surpasses R2 trillion in annual tax collection milestone
