The World Bank Group helps developing countries build smart infrastructure that supports inclusive and sustainable growth, expands markets, creates job opportunities, promotes competition, and contributes to a cleaner future. We help countries address their unique infrastructure needs by working with the public and private sectors. Infrastructure improves lives by connecting people to opportunity.
Access to basic infrastructure services is critical for creating economic opportunities and bringing social services to the poor. Globally, 840 million people live more than 2 kilometers from all-weather roads, 1 billion people lack electricity, and 4 billion people lack Internet access. Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals will only be possible if we close these infrastructure gaps, by ensuring:
- Rural roads and safe transport for access to health and education facilities;
- Electrification of clinics, schools and households in rural areas to improve digital connectivity;
- Improved road safety and clean cooking to reduce mortality and morbidity;
- Digital and other skills needed for implementing infrastructure investments.
Infrastructure is also critical to deliver on the priorities of the International Development Association (IDA), the World Bank's fund for the poorest countries. Portfolios in infrastructure are among the largest in IDA-borrowing countries.
