Oluwatobi Adu 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The World Bank Group and the Japanese Government have launched two major initiatives designed to help developing countries transform critical mineral resources and energy sectors into drivers of economic growth, investment and job creation.
The agreement was signed on Monday by World Bank Group President Ajay Banga and Japan’s Finance Minister, Satsuki Katayama.
The partners unveiled the Resilient and Inclusive Supply-chain Enhancement Plus (RISE+) initiative and adopted a new framework known as Dynamic Response for Invigorating Value Chains and Energy Security (DRIVE).
Under the agreement, Japan will establish a $20 million RISE+ facility through its single-donor trust funds to support developing countries seeking to strengthen critical mineral supply chains and attract private investment. World Bank, Japan Unveil $20m Minerals Growth Plan
The World Bank said the initiative builds on the RISE Partnership launched during Japan’s G7 Presidency in 2023 and focuses on strategic minerals such as rare earth elements essential for clean energy technologies and modern infrastructure.
“These initiatives will help countries turn growing demand for clean energy and critical minerals into investment, jobs, and economic opportunity that improve lives across developing economies,” said World Bank President Ajay Banga.
The DRIVE framework will focus on strengthening energy security and supply-chain resilience, particularly in countries vulnerable to fuel shortages and market disruptions.
Through partnerships with institutions including the Japan Bank for International Cooperation and the Japan International Cooperation Agency, the World Bank will provide financing, technical assistance and policy support to participating countries.
Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama said the initiatives would strengthen energy transition efforts, promote resilient supply chains and create high-quality jobs across developing economies.
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Korede Abdullah 
