World Bank Calls for Expanded Digital Access for Vulnerable Communities

The World Bank has called on governments and stakeholders to urgently expand digital access for vulnerable and underserved communities, warning that millions of people risk being left behind as economies and public services become increasingly digitised. The call underscores growing concerns about the digital divide, particularly in developing countries where access to technology remains uneven.

The global lender stressed that digital inclusion is now a critical development issue, as access to the internet, mobile devices and digital platforms increasingly determines people’s ability to participate in education, healthcare, financial services and economic opportunities. According to the World Bank, vulnerable groups such as rural populations, women, persons with disabilities and low-income households face significant barriers to accessing digital tools and services.

In its assessment, the World Bank noted that while digital transformation has accelerated across many sectors, the benefits have not been evenly distributed. It observed that large segments of the population in low- and middle-income countries still lack reliable internet connectivity, affordable data and basic digital skills. This gap, the institution warned, could deepen existing social and economic inequalities.

The World Bank emphasised that digital access is no longer a luxury but a necessity, particularly as governments increasingly rely on digital platforms to deliver public services. From social protection programmes and healthcare registration to education and identity systems, digital channels have become central to service delivery. Without inclusive access, vulnerable communities risk exclusion from essential services.

Focusing on sub-Saharan Africa, the institution highlighted that high costs of devices and data remain major obstacles to digital inclusion. It noted that many households spend a significant portion of their income on basic connectivity, making regular internet access unaffordable. Poor infrastructure, especially in rural and remote areas, further limits coverage and service quality.

The World Bank also drew attention to gender disparities in digital access. According to its findings, women are less likely than men to own smartphones or use mobile internet, largely due to income gaps, social norms and lower levels of digital literacy. The institution warned that failing to address this imbalance could undermine broader efforts to promote gender equality and economic empowerment.

Persons with disabilities were also identified as a group at risk of digital exclusion. The World Bank noted that many digital platforms are not designed with accessibility in mind, limiting their usability for people with visual, hearing or mobility impairments. It urged policymakers and technology providers to adopt inclusive design standards to ensure that digital services are accessible to all users.

To address these challenges, the World Bank called for coordinated action by governments, the private sector and development partners. It recommended increased investment in digital infrastructure, particularly broadband networks in underserved areas. The institution said expanding coverage would help reduce regional disparities and bring more people into the digital economy.

Affordability was identified as another critical issue. The World Bank urged governments to consider policy measures that lower the cost of data and devices, including tax reforms, targeted subsidies and increased competition among service providers. It argued that reducing costs would significantly boost internet adoption among low-income households.

Beyond infrastructure and affordability, the institution emphasised the importance of digital skills development. It noted that access alone is not sufficient if people lack the knowledge and confidence to use digital tools effectively. The World Bank called for investments in digital literacy programmes, particularly for young people, women and informal sector workers.

The institution also highlighted the role of digital financial services in promoting inclusion. It noted that access to mobile money and digital banking can help vulnerable communities save, borrow and receive payments more efficiently. However, it warned that gaps in digital access could prevent many people from benefiting from these innovations.

In the Nigerian context, experts say the World Bank’s call is timely, as the country continues to push digital reforms across sectors such as banking, education and public administration. While Nigeria has made progress in expanding mobile connectivity, significant gaps remain between urban and rural areas, as well as among income groups.

Analysts noted that improving digital access could support Nigeria’s broader development goals, including job creation, financial inclusion and economic diversification. By enabling more people to participate in online commerce, remote work and digital services, expanded access could help boost productivity and resilience.

However, they cautioned that achieving meaningful digital inclusion will require sustained political commitment and effective implementation. Investments must be accompanied by transparent policies, strong regulatory frameworks and partnerships with the private sector to ensure long-term impact.

The World Bank reiterated that inclusive digital development is essential for building resilient and equitable societies. It warned that without deliberate action, digital transformation could widen existing inequalities rather than reduce them.

As economies become more technology-driven, the institution stressed that leaving vulnerable communities behind is not only a social risk but also an economic one. Ensuring universal digital access, it said, will be key to unlocking shared growth and sustainable development in the years ahead.