The World Bank has urged developing countries to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to improve governance, public service delivery, and economic development, warning that nations that fail to adopt the technology risk being left behind in an increasingly digital world.
The call was made on Thursday as the global financial institution highlighted the growing role of artificial intelligence in transforming government operations, boosting efficiency, and improving decision-making across key sectors.
According to the World Bank, AI has the potential to enhance the delivery of public services, strengthen transparency and accountability, improve healthcare and education systems, and support more effective policy implementation.
The institution, however, cautioned that developing countries must invest in digital infrastructure, build the necessary technical skills, and establish appropriate regulatory frameworks to harness the full benefits of artificial intelligence while addressing potential risks.
The World Bank noted that countries that delay the adoption of AI technologies could face widening development gaps as advanced economies continue to integrate artificial intelligence into governance, business, and innovation.
It also encouraged governments to promote responsible and inclusive AI adoption by ensuring data privacy, cybersecurity, and ethical standards remain central to their digital transformation strategies.
The latest remarks underscore the growing global push for artificial intelligence as a critical tool for economic growth, improved governance, and sustainable development, particularly in emerging and developing economies.