ATAF Appoints Mary Baine as New Executive Secretary
By Patience Ikpeme
The African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF) has announced the appointment of Ms. Mary Baine as its new Executive Secretary, effective July 1, 2025. Ms. Baine takes over from Mr. Logan Wort, who has served as ATAF’s Executive Secretary since the organization’s establishment in 2009.
Ms. Baine brings considerable leadership experience and a strong 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 capably led the organization’s strategic planning, international cooperation, and African multilateral initiatives.
Prior to joining ATAF, Ms. Baine held senior roles within the government of Rwanda, including that of Commissioner General of the Rwanda Revenue Authority and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Her career has been marked by a passion for African-led development and continuous efforts to strengthen domestic resource mobilization as a foundation for sustainable growth.
In announcing her appointment, ATAF Chairperson Mr. 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 leading African network dedicated to improving tax systems on the continent through knowledge sharing, capacity development, and active contribution to the regional and global tax agenda. This is achieved by developing Africa-informed and focused policies and positions. Striving to build efficient and effective tax administrations in Africa, ATAF has positioned itself as a leader on African tax matters, thereby supporting the enhancement of economic development and improving the living standards of the people of Africa.
As the new Executive Secretary, Ms. Baine will continue to inspire and guide ATAF’s strategic direction, champion the interests of its 44 members and the African Continent, and support Africa’s evolving development agenda.
ATAF extended its deepest gratitude to Mr. Logan Wort for his exceptional leadership over the past 15 years. Under his guidance, ATAF grew into a respected continental institution, playing a central 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”.
