Mary Baine Appointed as New Executive Secretary of ATAF: Ushering a New Era for Africa’s Tax Transformation In a landmark transition at the African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF), Mary Baine, former Commissioner General of the Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA), will assume office as the new Executive Secretary of ATAF, succeeding Logan Wort, who has served in the role since the Forum’s establishment in 2009. Baine’s appointment, effective July 1, 2025, marks a strategic shift as ATAF intensifies its efforts to strengthen domestic tax systems across Africa and bolster domestic resource mobilisation (DRM)—a critical component for sustainable development on the continent. “Her remarkable career has been defined by a passion for African-led development and her tireless efforts to strengthen domestic resource mobilisation as a foundation for sustainable growth,” ATAF said in its official announcement. A Legacy of Leadership and Reform Prior to this appointment, Baine served as Deputy Executive Secretary at ATAF, where she played a key role in steering the organisation’s strategic initiatives, including capacity development, tax policy reform, and regional coordination. Her leadership trajectory includes distinguished service within the Government of Rwanda, including a tenure as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. With a background in both tax administration and international diplomacy, Baine brings a uniquely strategic and technical perspective to her new role—especially relevant as African countries strive to align domestic tax policies with global standards, fight illicit financial flows, and improve tax compliance in both the formal and informal sectors. Endorsement and Future Vision Edward Kieswetter, Chairperson of ATAF and Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (SARS), welcomed Baine’s appointment with optimism: “Ms Baine's appointment marks a new and exciting chapter in ATAF's journey. Her extensive expertise, demonstrated leadership, and unwavering dedication to the Forum's mission uniquely position her to lead ATAF into its next phase of impact,” Kieswetter stated. He also paid glowing tribute to the outgoing Executive Secretary, Logan Wort, whose tenure over the past 15 years saw ATAF evolve into a globally respected institution. Under his leadership, ATAF expanded its footprint, facilitated critical tax policy dialogues across Africa, and championed African representation in international tax discourse, including the OECD, UN, and G24 platforms. “Wort leaves a legacy of excellence, integrity, and impact. As we welcome Ms. Baine into this new role, we look forward to building on this strong foundation and accelerating progress toward a more equitable and prosperous Africa,” Kieswetter added. ATAF’s Strategic Relevance in Africa’s Fiscal Future Founded in 2009, ATAF has grown to become the premier African network of tax administrators, promoting cooperation and knowledge sharing among over 40 member countries. Through training, policy research, technical assistance, and regional tax policy harmonisation, ATAF supports members in building efficient, fair, and transparent tax systems. In the face of declining external aid, rising debt burdens, and ambitious SDG financing targets, domestic resource mobilisation has become a fiscal lifeline for African nations. Baine’s leadership is expected to focus on capacity building, digital transformation of tax systems, addressing base erosion and profit shifting (BEPS), and advancing the African voice in global tax governance—especially within frameworks like the Inclusive Framework on BEPS and UN-led tax initiatives. Conclusion Mary Baine’s appointment signals more than just a leadership transition—it represents a renewed commitment to tax justice, transparency, and home-grown solutions for Africa’s development challenges. As ATAF steps into its next chapter under her stewardship, expectations are high for innovative reforms, deeper regional collaboration, and a more assertive African presence in shaping the future of global taxation. Olatunji Abdulrazaq CNA, ACTI, ACIArb(UK) Founder/CEO, Taxmobile.Online