The World Bank's International Development Association (IDA) endorsed the disbursement of US$100 million to accelerate the digital transformation in Niger through modernising the economy and improving access to essential services. The project will establish a resilient infrastructure and generate innovations to increase access to essential social services. It is designed to further support the 'Smart Villages' project which aims to improve access to mobile telephony and broadband services in rural areas while promoting paperless financial services to some of the underserved regions in Niger. 'The pandemic has revealed the urgency of accelerating the digital transformation to enable countries like Niger to keep the private sector active and save lives and jobs. By ensuring that all citizens have access to quality and affordable internet connection, that online public services are easily accessible, and that the digital economy drives growth, innovation, and job creation, this new project will help Niger harness its potential for digital development,' World Bank Senior Digital Development Specialist Tim Kelly stated.