The World Bank is betting big on sectors that can withstand the rise of artificial intelligence to fuel job creation and economic growth. From mining modernization in Peru to digital transformation in Africa and economic reforms in Kazakhstan, the global lender is targeting industries where tech meets opportunity.
Peru’s Mining Sector: Modernizing for the Future
Peru’s mining industry generates about 10% of the country’s GDP and accounts for a hefty slice of exports. Yet investment has slowed lately, bogged down by regulatory hurdles and slow permitting. The World Bank just greenlit a $200 million project designed to shake things up: modernize regulations, boost transparency, and upgrade geological data systems. The goal is clear — attract fresh investment and open up new jobs along the mining value chain.
Mining isn’t just about digging metals out of the earth anymore. This sector is central to the clean energy transition, supplying copper, lithium, and other minerals vital to electric vehicles, renewable energy, and digital infrastructure. Demand for these metals is set to soar as the world shifts away from fossil fuels and ramps up digital technology.
By improving exploration and institutional efficiency, Peru hopes to unlock its mineral wealth responsibly and sustainably. Part of the plan includes building a National Drill Core Library and a cutting-edge geochronology lab to give investors better access to geological data.
The project also aims to support skilled job creation, especially for youth and mining communities, with an eye on digitalization and innovation.
Africa’s Digital Transformation Push
Meanwhile, in Western and Central Africa, the World Bank is backing a regional summit focused on digital transformation and AI readiness. Internet penetration remains low, with only about 40% of people online and many more in areas covered by infrastructure but not using the internet.
Closing that digital divide is a major hurdle.
The summit aims to accelerate reforms and investments that bring more people and businesses online, build AI skills, and create digital jobs. Governments are expected to set policies that foster trust and inclusion, while private sector involvement is crucial for capital and innovation. The hope is to build regional digital markets, boost broadband access, and harness data for economic growth.
Digital tech is already a major driver of progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals, impacting over 70% of the targets. Countries with better digital infrastructure have made 40% more progress than their peers. And digitalization isn’t just about convenience — it’s a pathway to resilience, job creation, and poverty reduction amid global challenges.
Kazakhstan’s Economic Reforms Aim at Inclusive Growth
Further east, Kazakhstan is undergoing a sweeping reform agenda backed by a $600 million World Bank loan. The focus: shift to private-sector-led growth, create quality jobs, and build economic resilience. The reforms tie into national strategies that prioritize diversification, digital connectivity, and low-emission development.
Early signs show progress. Digital reforms have expanded broadband access, helping small and medium enterprises tap into capital and grow. A tariff-for-investment program is shoring up utilities’ finances to attract private investment. Social protection and regional development measures are also part of the package, aiming to shield vulnerable populations from shocks.
What sets Kazakhstan’s approach apart is its emphasis on making growth inclusive and sustainable. By reducing market distortions and fostering competition, the reforms are designed to turn the private sector into the main engine of job creation. The World Bank’s support comes as the country balances economic modernization with environmental goals and social inclusion.
As AI and digital technologies reshape economies worldwide, the World Bank’s targeted investments show a clear strategy: focus on sectors that can absorb tech advances while creating jobs and boosting resilience. Whether it’s mining in Peru, digital markets in Africa, or reforms in Kazakhstan, the emphasis is on sustainable growth that reaches communities and prepares them for the tech-driven future.
