By Weekly Vision Business Desk
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has appointed George Obell as Commissioner for the Micro and Small Taxpayers Department (MST), effective 10 November. Mr Obell, with over 28 years of experience in tax administration, has served as the acting head of the Micro and Small Taxpayers Department since 1 March. Previously, he was Deputy Commissioner for both the Medium Taxpayers Office and the East & South of Nairobi Tax Service Office.
In these roles, he spearheaded key reforms centred on tax digitalisation, including the successful rollout of electronic invoicing systems, the integration of data analytics, and the implementation of risk-based compliance measures to enhance operational efficiency.
Mr Obell currently chairs the African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF) VAT Technical Committee. His expertise spans a broad range of tax policy and administration, including digital taxation, transfer pricing, Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS), tax audits, and the Exchange of Information (EOI).
In recognition of his exemplary service and leadership in tax reform, Mr Obell was awarded the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (MBS) by the President of Kenya.
He holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from the University of Nairobi, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the United States International University (USIU)–Africa. He is also a member of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK).
“The KRA Board and Management congratulate Mr Obell on his well-deserved appointment and are confident that his visionary leadership will further strengthen KRA’s support for the micro and small taxpayers segment, enhance compliance, and foster inclusive economic growth,” said KRA Commissioner-General Humphrey Wattanga Mulongo in a statement.
