Profile of George Obell: KRA Official Leading the Race to Become Next Commissioner General

George Obell has built his career inside Kenya’s tax system, rising steadily to become a key figure at the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA). He now serves as Commissioner for the Micro and Small Taxpayers Department, where he leads efforts to bring small businesses and informal traders into the tax net.

He took up the role in November 2025 after serving in an acting capacity. At the time, KRA expressed confidence in his leadership and direction.

“The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. George Obell… as the Commissioner for the Micro and Small Taxpayers Department (MST). His visionary leadership will further strengthen KRA’s efforts… enhancing compliance,” the authority said in its appointment.

Driving Compliance Among Small Traders

In his current role, Obell focuses on one of the most challenging areas of tax administration. He targets small and medium enterprises as well as informal sector operators. These groups form a large part of Kenya’s economy, yet many remain outside the tax system.

As a result, he has pushed reforms that combine enforcement with technology. He continues to champion digital tools to improve efficiency and reduce revenue losses.

“KRA will roll out a new staff management system in April, now 60% complete, to tighten tax compliance and improve oversight of field officers,” he said while addressing stakeholders.

“Through a smartphone-enabled solution, officers will be able to capture taxpayer data, monitor compliance in real time, and provide immediate feedback while in the field,” he added, explaining how the system will work in practice.

Therefore, the reforms point to a shift toward real-time monitoring and stronger accountability, especially in the informal sector.

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Education and Professional Background

Academically, Obell holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA).

In addition, he earned a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) from the University of Nairobi and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from USIU-Africa.

He is also a member of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK).

Obell served as Deputy Commissioner for the Medium Taxpayers Office (MTO) and as Deputy Commissioner for the East & South of Nairobi (E&SoN) Tax Service Office.

In these capacities, he led key reforms focused on tax digitalization, including the successful implementation of electronic invoicing systems, the adoption of data analytics, and the use of risk-based compliance interventions to enhance operational efficiency.

Besides, Obell currently chairs the African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF) VAT Technical Committee.

His expertise spans various areas of tax policy and administration, including digital taxation, transfer pricing, Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS), tax audits, and Exchange of Information (EOI).

In recognition of his outstanding 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.

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At the Centre of Tax Reforms

Overall, Obell’s career shows a steady rise within Kenya’s revenue system. He has remained closely involved in efforts to expand the tax base and modernize compliance.

Now, as Commissioner at the Kenya Revenue Authority, he plays a central role in ongoing reforms. He continues to push for systems that bring small and informal businesses into a structured tax framework.

In the end, both his experience and the scrutiny he faces keep him at the center of Kenya’s evolving tax landscape.

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George Obell, MBS, serves as the Commissioner for the Micro and Small Taxpayers Department (MST) at the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA)., Appointed to the role on November 10, 2025. PHOTO/ KRA