AI can help developing nations leapfrog a century of progress, World Bank says

Developing nations can leapfrog decades of development using readily available artificial intelligence tools, the World Bank announced in early August. The institution's publication, "The Promise of Artificial Intelligence," suggests that massive data centers and colossal investments are unnecessary. Instead, the focus should be on adapting small, low-cost AI tools to local realities.

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AI offers developing economies a vital tool they must seize.

"AI offers developing economies a vital tool they must seize," stated Indermit Gill, the World Bank's first vice president and chief economist. He emphasized that these countries "do not need large models or vast data centers to benefit." By tailoring AI solutions, millions can gain access to better services in areas like healthcare, agricultural extension, education, and justice.

Gill urged developing countries to act swiftly, as AI's spread outpaces that of electricity and the internet. The World Bank report also indicates that AI's impact on job losses will be less severe in low- and middle-income countries compared to high-income nations. Only 4.5% of existing jobs are threatened in developing economies, versus 14.2% in high-income countries. Conversely, 16.2% of jobs in developing economies could see significant productivity gains from AI, a figure close to that in developed countries (18.7%). This presents a historic opportunity to reduce the growth and development gap without substantial resource deployment.

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these countries do not need large models or vast data centers to benefit.

The World Bank report highlights that AI is already assisting individuals, businesses, and governments in problem-solving, information analysis, improving forecasts, and scaling service delivery. This capability helps bridge critical expertise shortages in many fields, particularly in countries lacking sufficient qualified professionals.

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By adapting small, low-cost AI tools to local realities, these countries can put better services within reach of millions of people, from healthcare to agricultural extension, education, and justice.