By Deborah Akur Chol, South Sudan
The South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA) recently hosted a reception to officially welcome its newly appointed Deputy Commissioner General, Hon. John Mading Bol Makuac. The ceremony took place at the SSRA Headquarters in Juba, attended by notable figures including Commissioner General Hon. Simon Akuei Deng and Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning, Hon. Yien Chan Ruai.
This event signifies a vital leadership transition within the SSRA, reinforcing the authority’s commitment to enhancing revenue reforms and promoting national development in South Sudan.
During his address, Commissioner General Hon. Simon Akuei Deng praised the SSRA team for exceeding previous revenue targets, crediting their success to a collaborative team effort and improved compliance measures. He stressed the necessity of strengthening tax laws, addressing the challenges posed by tax exemptions on revenue collection, and committing to reforms that facilitate sustainable revenue growth.
Moreover, he emphasised the strategic shift from sales tax to a Value Added Tax (VAT) system, aimed at aligning South Sudan’s practices with those of the region while boosting revenue mobilisation. The commissioner highlighted that the authority’s primary focus remains on bolstering domestic revenue collections to ensure reliable funding for national salaries and essential public services.
Deputy Commissioner General Hon. John Mading Bol Makuac reiterated the SSRA’s resolve to build on its past achievements and exceed previous collection records, affirming the institution’s critical role in establishing a solid financial foundation for South Sudan’s progress.
Hon. Taban Abel Aguek, the former Deputy Commissioner General, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support he received from the SSRA leadership and staff throughout his tenure. He encouraged the team to maintain high levels of integrity in their revenue collection efforts for the benefit of national development and pledged his continued support.
The leadership of the SSRA took the opportunity to bid farewell to outgoing Deputy Commissioner General, Taban Abel Aguek, as he officially passed the baton to his successor, John Mading Bol Makuac. This transition was celebrated during a reception ceremony held at the SSRA headquarters on Wednesday.
In their tributes, SSRA leaders acknowledged Abel’s dedication, integrity, and significant contributions during his time in office, recognising him as a key player in the institution’s advancement.
Kiir Yor Lual, Commissioner of Corporate Services, extolled Abel’s role in fortifying the Authority. “Our achievements here are a reflection of the substantial contributions made by our outgoing deputy commissioner general. I want to take this moment to thank him and wish him all the best in his future endeavours,” said Yor.
Commissioner General Simon Akuei Deng also paid tribute to Abel, emphasising the importance of teamwork and collective decision-making that defined his tenure.
“On behalf of the SSRA family, I express my gratitude for your dedication, professional expertise, and integrity over the past ten months,” Deng remarked. “I honour my colleague Taban Abel for a job well done, highlighting our transparency in implementing government initiatives. Every decision made here is shared openly, ensuring there is no secrecy.”
In his farewell remarks, Taban Abel Aguek extended deep appreciation to the SSRA leadership and staff for their collaboration and support. “I am immensely grateful to all deputy commissioners, assistant commissioners, and staff at the SSRA for your commitment and support during my tenure. You are the source of our strength,” he stated.
He urged all staff members to remain united and support SSRA leadership in enhancing service delivery.
John Mading Bol, Abel’s successor, was appointed earlier this week by President Salva Kiir through a presidential decree broadcast on state-owned SSBC. With extensive experience in revenue administration, Bol previously served as Chief of Administration and Finance at the Nimule Customs Station and as Assistant Commissioner for the Large Tax Unit (LTU) in the Domestic Tax Revenue Division.
In his inaugural speech as Deputy Commissioner General, John Mading Bol pledged to honour the trust placed in him by both the President and the Commissioner General.
“I assure the President of South Sudan and my superiors that I am committed to working diligently and supporting your leadership. I will strive to uphold the standards of the SSRA and will not disappoint either the President or my superior, the Commissioner General,” Mading declared.
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