The global economy continues to become more digital, but access to digital services remains uneven. Too many people and businesses in low-income and fragile contexts still lack reliable connectivity and affordable digital tools. Expanding digital infrastructure and enabling inclusive digital services are therefore central to deliver lasting impact for people, businesses and economies.
A core focus of our work is strengthening digital infrastructure and connectivity, particularly in markets where private investment has traditionally been scarce. In Nepal, our long‑standing investment in WorldLink has supported the expansion of broadband infrastructure beyond major cities, improving access to reliable internet services for households and businesses across the country. In 2025, WorldLink reached a significant milestone: connecting one million households across Nepal. This expansion has helped widen participation in the digital economy, supporting everything from education and healthcare access to small business growth.
Similarly, in Ethiopia, our investment in Safaricom Ethiopia formed part of a landmark effort to open up and modernise the country’s telecoms sector. Entering a previously monopolised market, Safaricom Ethiopia has played a catalytic role in expanding mobile connectivity, increasing competition and supporting the development of a more dynamic digital ecosystem. As the business scales, the impact of this market-shaping intervention is increasingly visible in improved access to communications and digital services for millions of people.
We also invest in digital businesses that use technology to deliver essential services more inclusively and affordably. Digital platforms can reduce costs, extend reach and unlock new opportunities for individuals and small enterprises who are often excluded from formal systems.
For example, Wave Mobile Money uses digital financial services to improve financial inclusion, enabling people and businesses to make payments, transfer money and participate more fully in the formal economy. And our investment in the Lendable MSME Fintech Credit Fund is backing inclusive fintech companies that enable more customers to have better access to digital financial services.
