President Ramaphosa Hails SARS as 'Engine Room of the State' During Oversight Visit

Ramaphosa Commends SARS's Vital Role

President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday, February 5, 2026, undertook an oversight visit to the South African Revenue Service (SARS) National Command Centre in Brooklyn, Pretoria. During his visit, the President lauded SARS as 'the engine room of the South African state' and a 'cornerstone of the country's democratic and economic development'.

President Ramaphosa emphasized the unique and critical role SARS plays in building a capable state and sustaining democracy. He highlighted that the institution has been central to funding public services, infrastructure development, and inclusive economic growth. 'The South African Revenue Service occupies a unique and critical role in the life of our nation; it is at the heart of our efforts to build a capable state,' President Ramaphosa stated.

Significant Contributions to National Development

Since its establishment in 1997, SARS has collected more than R23 trillion in tax revenue, which has been instrumental in supporting social and economic development across the nation. The President commended SARS for its commitment to strengthening compliance, which ensures that the government has sufficient and predictable resources for the delivery of public services and investment in infrastructure.

Ramaphosa also praised SARS for embracing innovation, harnessing new technologies, and enhancing its understanding of taxpayers, positioning it at the forefront of global best practice in tax administration. Public trust in SARS has reportedly grown from 48 percent to 75 percent in the last five years.

Combating Corruption and Illicit Activities

The President acknowledged SARS's leading role in the fight against corruption and illicit economic activity. He welcomed the launch of Project AmaBillions, a SARS initiative aimed at recovering an estimated R300 billion in legally due outstanding taxes. Ramaphosa noted that through lifestyle audits and enforcement actions directed at the illicit economy, SARS is playing a crucial role in this ongoing battle.

Furthermore, President Ramaphosa recognized SARS's contribution to the multidisciplinary efforts that led to South Africa's removal from the Financial Action Task Force grey list in October 2025. He also paid tribute to SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter for his leadership since 2019, acknowledging the institution's recovery and improved governance following the state capture era.

Appreciation for SARS Staff

Concluding his address, President Ramaphosa expressed profound appreciation to the dedicated staff of SARS across the country. He acknowledged the inherent difficulties and pressures associated with enforcing tax compliance, stating, 'Thank you for doing what is one of the state's most difficult jobs: enforcing tax compliance and taking tough decisions with fairness and integrity, often under immense pressure and criticism.'