The African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF) has appointed Mary Baine as its new Executive Secretary, effective July 1, 2025. Baine succeeds Logan Wort, who has served as ATAF’s Executive Secretary since its establishment in 2009.
Baine brings a wealth of leadership experience and a deep commitment to advancing fair, effective, and inclusive tax systems across the African continent. Before this appointment, she served as the Deputy Executive Secretary of ATAF, where she led the organisation’s strategic planning, international cooperation, and African multilateral initiatives with distinction.
Prior to joining ATAF, Baine held senior roles in the government of Rwanda, including that of Commissioner General of the Rwanda Revenue Authority and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 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.
In announcing her appointment, ATAF Chairperson Edward Kieswetter stated: “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 positioned her to lead ATAF in the next phase of its journey.”
ATAF stands as the pre-eminent African network aimed at improving tax systems in Africa through knowledge sharing, capacity development and active contribution to the regional and global tax agenda through the development of Africa informed and focused policies and positions.
Striving to build efficient and effective tax administrations in Africa, ATAF has positioned itself as the leader on African tax matters, thereby supporting the enhancement of economic development on the continent, and improving the living standards of the people of Africa.
As the new Executive Secretary, Baine will continue to inspire and lead ATAF’s strategic direction, champion the interests of its 44 members and the African Continent, and support Africa’s evolving development agenda.
ATAF lauded Wort for his exceptional leadership over the past 15 years. Under his stewardship, ATAF grew into a respected continental institution, playing a pivotal role in shaping tax policy, enhancing capacity, and promoting international tax cooperation for African countries.
In his concluding remarks the ATAF Chairperson said,” Mr. 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”.
