Elsie Appau-Klu, Technical Advisor to the Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), has received an ‘Excellence in Public Policy and Governance’ award in London, United Kingdom. This honour was bestowed at the 16th African Achievers Awards, held at the historic House of Lords, Palace of Westminster, on July 22, 2026.
The award recognises Ms. Appau-Klu’s significant contributions to public policy and leadership. It underscores her role in advancing governance and policy development across Africa. This is not her first such recognition; she received a similar award at the 8th edition of the African Achievers Awards in 2018 at the House of Commons.
This recognition highlights Ghana’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its public institutions and improve revenue mobilisation. The GRA, under Commissioner-General Anthony Sarpong, has been implementing reforms to modernise tax administration. These reforms aim to enhance voluntary tax compliance and broaden the country’s tax base, crucial for national development.
Receiving the award, Ms. Appau-Klu stated, “I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive this Excellence in Public Policy and Governance Award here at the historic House of Lords. This award is not mine alone. I receive it on behalf of the entire team at the Ghana Revenue Authority and on behalf of the taxpayers of Ghana.” She stressed that Africa’s development depends on strong institutions, sound public policies, and effective governance.
Ms. Appau-Klu highlighted the GRA’s reforms, which focus on deploying technology to simplify tax compliance. These initiatives aim to make the tax system more transparent and accessible for citizens. The goal is to foster a culture where taxation is viewed as an investment in national development, not a burden.
The GRA’s modernisation efforts are critical for Ghana’s fiscal stability and economic growth. Improved tax collection directly impacts the government’s ability to fund essential services like education, healthcare, and infrastructure. This award serves as an international endorsement of the progress being made in Ghana’s public sector.
Ms. Appau-Klu also encouraged public servants across Africa to maintain integrity in their work. She described nation-building as a slow, tough, but ultimately vital process. She urged young Africans to consider careers in public service, viewing governance as a powerful tool for societal transformation.
Beyond her GRA role, Ms. Appau-Klu is a lawyer, human resources practitioner, and policy analyst. She champions policy reforms supporting women-owned businesses through the Women Entrepreneurs Network. She also works with the Ezel Foundation, empowering women and girls and advocating for women’s economic rights.
The African Achievers Awards, hosted by Lords Baroness Verma and Baron Simon Wooley of Woodford, celebrates outstanding Africans. The ceremony at the House of Lords signifies the global importance of recognising individuals shaping Africa’s future. This award reinforces the message that effective public policy and governance are foundational to sustainable economic development across the continent.
The implications of such recognition extend beyond individual accolades. It can boost morale within the GRA and encourage continued reform efforts. It also signals to international partners Ghana’s commitment to good governance and fiscal responsibility. This can positively influence investor confidence and support for Ghana’s economic agenda.