KRA Appoints Lilian Nyawanda Acting Commissioner General as Wattanga Exits

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has announced a leadership transition following the departure of its Commissioner General, Humphrey Wattanga.

In a press release issued on April 8, 2026, the KRA Board, chaired by Ndiritu Muriithi, confirmed that Wattanga will not have his contract renewed. The Board said the decision was made in accordance with the terms of his service contract and takes effect immediately.

“The Board informs the public that it will not be renewing Mr. Humphrey Wattanga’s Contract of Service as Commissioner General,” the statement read.

Despite the exit, the Board commended Wattanga for his leadership during his tenure, noting that he played a key role in advancing the Authority’s mandate and driving organizational restructuring.

“He has been instrumental in the successful organizational restructuring reforms at the Kenya Revenue Authority,” the Board said.

To ensure continuity, the Authority has appointed Lilian Nyawanda as Acting Commissioner General, pending the recruitment of a substantive office holder through a competitive process.

Nyawanda currently serves as Commissioner of Customs and Border Control at KRA and takes over at a time when the Authority is under pressure to enhance revenue collection and efficiency.

“The Board has appointed Dr. Lilian Nyawanda as the Acting Commissioner General… pending the recruitment of a substantive Commissioner General through a competitive process,” the statement added.

The KRA reaffirmed its commitment to delivering on its mandate effectively and in the best interest of the public.

The leadership change marks a significant shift at the tax agency, with expectations that the incoming leadership will sustain ongoing reforms and strengthen revenue mobilization efforts.