The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has confirmed the appointment of George Obell, MBS, as the Commissioner for the Micro and Small Taxpayers Department (MST), effective November 10, 2025.
Obell has been serving in an acting capacity since the department’s establishment on March 1, 2025. His official appointment underscores KRA’s commitment to strengthening institutional capacity, enhancing service delivery, and promoting organizational excellence.
In a statement, KRA Commissioner General Humphrey Wattanga said Obell’s appointment aligns with the authority’s vision to improve efficiency and support Kenya’s growing micro and small taxpayer segment.
“The Board and Management express confidence that his visionary leadership will further strengthen KRA’s efforts in supporting the micro and small taxpayers segment, enhancing compliance, and fostering inclusive economic growth,” the authority said.
Obell brings over 28 years of experience in tax administration, combining strategic and technical expertise to drive reforms. Before his new role, he served as Deputy Commissioner for the Medium Taxpayers Office (MTO) and Deputy Commissioner for the East and South of Nairobi (E&SoN) Tax Service Office.
During his tenure, he led major tax digitalization reforms, including the rollout of electronic invoicing systems, data analytics adoption, and risk-based compliance interventions aimed at improving efficiency.
Beyond KRA, Obell chairs the African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF) VAT Technical Committee, showcasing his regional influence in tax policy. His expertise spans digital taxation, transfer pricing, Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS), and Exchange of Information (EOI).
In recognition of his service, he was awarded the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (MBS) by the President of Kenya.
Obell holds an MBA and LL.B. from the University of Nairobi and a BSc in Accounting from USIU–Africa. He is also a member of ICPAK.
His appointment marks a major milestone in KRA’s efforts to promote compliance and enhance service delivery within Kenya’s vital small business sector.
