KRA Confirms George Obell as Commissioner for Micro and Small Taxpayers Department

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has confirmed the appointment of Mr. George Obell, MBS, as the Commissioner for the Micro and Small Taxpayers Department (MST), effective November 10, 2025.

In a statement issued on Monday, KRA said the appointment is part of its broader efforts to strengthen institutional capacity and enhance service delivery. “As part of our ongoing efforts to strengthen institutional capacity, enhance service delivery, and promote organizational excellence, KRA is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. George Obell as the Commissioner for the Micro and Small Taxpayers Department,” the statement read in part.

Mr. Obell has been serving in an acting capacity since the department’s establishment on March 1, 2025, and brings over 28 years of experience in tax administration and policy development. Prior to this role, he served as Deputy Commissioner for the Medium Taxpayers Office (MTO) and Deputy Commissioner for the East and South of Nairobi Tax Service Office (E&SoN).

During his tenure, Mr. Obell championed tax reforms focused on digital transformation, including the rollout of electronic invoicing systems, the use of data analytics, and risk-based compliance frameworks to improve operational efficiency.

KRA further praised Mr. Obell’s leadership on the African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF) VAT Technical Committee, where he has advanced discussions on digital taxation, Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS), and transfer pricing.

“The KRA Board and Management congratulate Mr. Obell on his well-deserved appointment and express confidence that his visionary leadership will further strengthen KRA’s efforts in supporting the micro and small taxpayers segment,” the Authority added.

Mr. Obell, who was recently honored with the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (MBS) by the President of Kenya, holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) from the University of Nairobi, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from USIU-Africa.