Meet Anthony Sarpong: Ghana's new Acting GRA Commissioner-General

Ghana has ushered in a new era for its revenue administration with the appointment of Anthony Sarpong as the Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) by President John Dramani Mahama.

Anthony Sarpong, a seasoned professional with nearly three decades of experience in finance, taxation, and public sector reforms, is expected to bring transformation and innovation to Ghana’s revenue collection and administration.

His appointment has been widely welcomed, with many citing his extensive expertise and strong leadership track record.

Born and raised in Ghana, Anthony Kwasi Sarpong has built an illustrious career in finance and taxation. He is a proud alumnus of the University of Ghana Business School, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Administration (Accounting) in 1996.

His academic achievements include an MSc in Financial Risk Management from London Metropolitan University, as well as executive programs at the London Business School and Harvard University.

Professionally, he is a Chartered Accountant and a Chartered Tax Practitioner, holding fellowships with the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana (ICAG) and memberships with the Chartered Institute of Taxation, Ghana (CITG) and the Ghana Association of Restructuring and Insolvency Advisors (GARIA).

Sarpong's impressive career trajectory includes a distinguished tenure at KPMG Ghana, where he rose to the position of Country Managing Partner and played a key role in KPMG Africa’s leadership.

During his time at KPMG, he spearheaded major initiatives in audit, assurance, risk management, and restructuring, reinforcing the firm's reputation as a leader in financial consultancy.

Leadership and Impact

Beyond his corporate accomplishments, Sarpong has led several high-impact national and international projects, showcasing his ability to deliver under complex circumstances. Notable among his contributions is his role in the development of a domestic revenue mobilization policy for Ghana’s Ministry of Finance, which has been pivotal in enhancing the country’s revenue generation capacity.

Additionally, he spearheaded the creation of Ghana’s first road financing framework, aligning it with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). His work with the World Bank and other development partners to design support frameworks for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) further demonstrates his dedication to economic inclusivity and growth.

ViSarpong’s appointment aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s vision for a technology-driven, transparent, and efficient revenue administration system. Drawing from his vast experience in organizational restructuring and technology-driven solutions, he aims to enhance tax compliance and revenue collection at the GRA.

With a leadership style rooted in collaboration and innovation, Sarpong is expected to foster strong partnerships with businesses, development partners, and the public. Having led over 500 professionals at KPMG Ghana and contributed to the leadership of 6,500 personnel across Africa, he is well-equipped to drive the GRA’s transformation agenda.

Champion for youth and community development

Outside of his professional life, Mr. Sarpong is a passionate advocate for youth empowerment and community development. As Chairman of the Ghana ENACTUS Board, he has mentored young entrepreneurs and fostered innovation among Ghana’s future leaders.

Additionally, he serves as the President of the 1996 University of Ghana Business School Alumni Association, where he continues to support educational initiatives.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, he played a key role in managing the private sector fund that built Ghana’s first infectious disease center at the GA East Hospital, showcasing his crisis management and people-centered leadership.

Sarpong’s appointment comes at a crucial time for Ghana, as the country works to address revenue leakages, improve tax compliance, and meet its development objectives. His wealth of experience, unwavering integrity, and deep knowledge of finance and taxation make him well-suited for this critical role.

As he assumes leadership of the GRA, Ghanaians can expect a revenue administration system that prioritizes transparency, accountability, and innovation. His tenure is anticipated to usher in a new era of efficiency in tax collection and economic sustainability for the country.