World Bank moves to close digital gap for 2.6 billion people

The World Bank is working to connect 2.6 billion people still offline, leaning on digital solutions to narrow a persistent divide.

Recently, its second annual Global Digital Summit gathered public and private leaders to refine this push, tapping the bank’s 80-year track record to lift access.

A statement obtained from its website on Saturday detailed the Accelerating Digitalisation Global Challenge Programme, aimed at speeding tech adoption in countries.

Its digital public infrastructure—IDs, payments, data platforms—ties people to jobs, banking, healthcare, and education with reliable systems. It also backs cross-border digital markets, encouraging private sector roles via shared rules.

A new effort, funded by the Gates Foundation through the Digital Development Partnership, targets affordable connectivity and digital skills for women in poorer nations. It supports the Bank’s goal to link 300 million more women to broadband by 2030.

World Bank Vice President for Digital Transformation, Sangbu Kim, stated, “Digital transformation is one of the greatest opportunities of our time to drive growth and inclusion, especially at a moment when development is at a critical inflection point.

“Digital technology can spark innovation, create jobs, and break down barriers to opportunity. With over 80 years of experience, the World Bank Group is uniquely positioned to help nations harness digital solutions for a more resilient future.”

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