World Bank Urges Developing Countries to Embrace AI or Risk Falling Behind
The World Bank has called on developing countries to accelerate the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI), warning that nations that fail to embrace the technology risk falling behind in governance, economic competitiveness, and public service delivery.
The global financial institution made the appeal while highlighting the growing role of AI in transforming economies, improving government efficiency, and addressing development challenges across emerging markets.
According to the World Bank, artificial intelligence has the potential to revolutionize how governments deliver essential services, strengthen decision-making, enhance productivity, and improve transparency. However, it stressed that countries must invest in digital infrastructure, skills development, and appropriate regulations to fully harness these benefits.
The institution noted that AI is no longer a technology of the future but one that is already reshaping industries such as healthcare, education, agriculture, finance, manufacturing, and public administration.
For developing countries, the World Bank said AI presents an opportunity to close development gaps, improve service delivery, and stimulate economic growth if governments create the right environment for innovation.
The organization encouraged policymakers to prioritize investments in broadband connectivity, digital literacy, research, and workforce training to prepare citizens for an increasingly technology-driven global economy.
It also emphasized the importance of developing ethical guidelines and regulatory frameworks that promote responsible AI use while protecting privacy, security, and human rights.
The World Bank warned that countries that delay AI adoption could face widening productivity gaps and reduced competitiveness as businesses and governments around the world increasingly rely on automation and data-driven technologies.
Experts say artificial intelligence can help governments improve tax administration, detect fraud, optimize public spending, enhance disaster response, modernize healthcare systems, and strengthen education through personalized learning solutions.
In agriculture, AI-powered tools can assist farmers with weather forecasting, crop monitoring, and pest detection, while healthcare systems can benefit from faster diagnostics and improved patient management. Financial institutions are also using AI to expand digital banking and improve access to credit.
For Nigeria and other African countries, analysts believe AI could play a major role in accelerating digital transformation, creating new jobs, supporting startups, and improving public sector efficiency. However, they note that addressing infrastructure deficits, internet access, electricity supply, and digital skills remains essential for widespread adoption.
The World Bank also urged governments to collaborate with the private sector, universities, and international partners to build AI ecosystems that encourage innovation while ensuring that the technology benefits all segments of society.
As artificial intelligence continues to evolve at a rapid pace, the institution says developing countries have a unique opportunity to leverage the technology to drive inclusive growth, modernize governance, and improve the lives of millions of people.
With global competition increasingly centered on digital innovation, the World Bank maintains that embracing AI is no longer optional but a strategic necessity for countries seeking sustainable development and long-term economic resilience.