The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has officially appointed Mr. George Obell, MBS, as the new Commissioner for the Micro and Small Taxpayers Department (MST), effective November 10, 2025. The appointment marks a significant milestone in KRA’s continued efforts to enhance institutional capacity, improve service delivery, and promote organizational excellence across its tax administration systems.
According to a statement released by KRA, Mr. Obell has been serving in an acting capacity since the department’s establishment on March 1, 2025. With an impressive career spanning over 28 years in tax administration, his appointment is expected to bring strategic direction, innovation, and efficiency to the department.
Before assuming his new role, Mr. Obell served as the Deputy Commissioner for the Medium Taxpayers Office (MTO) and as Deputy Commissioner for the East and South of Nairobi (E&SoN) Tax Service Office. In these capacities, he spearheaded critical tax digitalization initiatives, including the successful rollout of electronic invoicing systems, the adoption of data analytics, and the use of risk-based compliance interventions aimed at strengthening tax operations and service delivery.
Beyond his administrative experience, Mr. Obell currently chairs the African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF) VAT Technical Committee, where he provides guidance on regional tax reforms. His expertise cuts across multiple areas such as digital taxation, transfer pricing, Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS), tax audits, and Exchange of Information (EOI)—key pillars in modern tax policy and administration.
Recognizing his exceptional service and contribution to Kenya’s tax reform journey, President William Ruto previously awarded Mr. Obell the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (MBS)—one of Kenya’s highest civilian honors.
Mr. Obell holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) from the University of Nairobi. He also possesses a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the United States International University (USIU-Africa) and is a member of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK).
In a congratulatory message, the KRA Board and Management expressed confidence that Mr. Obell’s visionary leadership will enhance the Authority’s efforts to support Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by improving compliance, service delivery, and tax inclusivity.
“His leadership will be instrumental in driving KRA’s mission to strengthen compliance while fostering inclusive economic growth,” read part of the KRA statement.
📢 Appointment Announcement KRA is proud to announce the appointment of Mr. George Obell, MBS, as the new Commissioner for the Micro and Small Taxpayers Department (MST). With over 28 years of experience & a focus on tax digitalisation, his leadership will drive excellence in… pic.twitter.com/TteCSYX1b5
KRA continues to reaffirm its commitment to empowering small businesses, promoting voluntary tax compliance, and using digital innovations to simplify tax processes for Kenyan taxpayers.
