Ramaphosa appoints Ngobani Makhubu as new SARS commissioner
Dr Ngobani Johnstone Makhubu will succeed outgoing Commissioner Edward Kieswetter, whose extended two-year contract concludes on 30 April 2026.
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President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Dr Ngobani Johnstone Makhubu as the new Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (SARS), effective May 1.
According to the presidency in a statement on Thursday, the appointment, made in terms of the SARS Act of 1997, follows a unanimous recommendation by a selection panel convened by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana.
Makhubu, currently serving as Deputy Commissioner for Taxpayer Engagement and Operations, will succeed outgoing Commissioner Edward Kieswetter, whose contract concludes on April 30, 2026.
A seasoned executive with over 17 years of leadership experience across both public and private sectors, Makhubu has played a key role in shaping SARS’ strategic direction since 2020.
He was instrumental in implementing the agency’s Vision 2024 strategy, which contributed to steady revenue growth and improved taxpayer compliance.
Ramaphosa said the appointment reflects strong succession planning within the institution and expressed confidence in Makhubu’s ability to lead SARS in maintaining fiscal stability and supporting government priorities.
“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 in a statement.
The President also praised Kieswetter for his leadership, crediting him with strengthening SARS as a cornerstone of South Africa’s economic and revenue systems.
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