The World Bank has called on developing countries to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) to improve governance, strengthen public services and accelerate economic growth.
Speaking at the launch of the 2026 World Development Report, the Bank’s Chief Economist, Indermit Gill, said developing economies can benefit from affordable, locally adapted AI tools without relying on costly data centres or advanced AI models.
According to the report, AI has the potential to transform healthcare, education, agriculture and justice systems while boosting economic growth before the end of the decade.
The World Bank also urged governments to invest in electricity, computing infrastructure and local data systems to maximise the benefits of AI adoption.
