World Bank Approves USD 50 Million to Boost Nepal’s Digital Transformation

The World Bank has approved financial assistance of USD 50 million to support Nepal’s digital transformation. The decision was taken by the World Bank’s Executive Directors Board in Washington under the “Nepal Digital Transformation Project.” The funding aims to strengthen Nepal’s digital public infrastructure and expand digital delivery of public services, bringing fundamental changes to the way citizens access government services.

Under the project, investments will be made in key digital platforms, including an integrated online citizen service portal, secure data exchange systems, and a digital locker for managing verifiable certificates and digital wallets. These initiatives are expected to improve accessibility, efficiency, and reliability of public services for citizens and businesses.

To enhance public trust in the digital economy, the project will also focus on electronic signatures (e-signature), cybersecurity, and data governance. David Sislen, the World Bank’s Division Director for Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, stated that investment in digital infrastructure would improve transparency, inclusiveness, and effectiveness in service delivery. He emphasized that digitalization would strengthen governance and enhance public sector performance.

The project will be implemented under a joint co-financing arrangement between the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Under the Full Mutual Reliance Framework, the World Bank will serve as the lead financier, while ADB will act as a trail financier. ADB will contribute USD 40 million to the project and is expected to present it to its Board in March 2026.