The World Bank and infrastructure development in developing countries∗

A review based on some recent World Bank publications.

Abstract

The history of the World Bank, which encompasses The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), The International Development Association (IDA) and The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is very briefly traced. The operation of these three banking organizations is described and then compared in a useful summary table, in respect of objectives, types of activities, current scope of activities, terms of lending, sources of funds, etc. At the operational level the typical project cycle, consisting of six phases, is briefly described.

Notes

A review based on some recent World Bank publications.

Senior Lecturer, Department of Civil Engineering, University of Stellenbosch.