The Africa Quantum Consortium Memo
Monthly Updates on Quantum Progress in Africa, October 1, 2024
In this newsletter:
1. Securing Africa's Quantum Future: PQC Challenges and Opportunities
2. Unitary Fund - 2024 Quantum Software Survey Call
3. Quantum Leadership in Africa: Temitope Adeniyi.
4. Shape Africa's Quantum Future: Join the AQC Working Groups!
And more...
1 Big Highlight: New PQC Standards Demand Action
Image Credit: NIST
Let’s dive in!
Lessons from history: In 1971, the Creeper virus—an experimental, self-replicating program—marked the beginning of unintended consequences in the digital world. Though harmless, it exposed vulnerabilities in networked systems, paving the way for more destructive viruses that reshaped the cybersecurity landscape.
Today, we stand on the edge of a new frontier: quantum computing. Like the Creeper virus, quantum computers could soon break the cryptographic methods that secure modern communications and finance. As Africa embraces technological growth, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Without proactive measures—such as adopting quantum key distribution (QKD) and post-quantum cryptography (PQC)—the continent risks exposure to the seismic changes quantum technology will bring.
Building on its history of exploring QKD, Africa must reflect on key lessons, take decisive steps in implementation, and act swiftly to avoid its own "Creeper moment" in the quantum computing era.
What: Over the past several years, there has been steady progress toward building quantum computers. The security of many commonly used public-key cryptosystems will be at risk if large-scale quantum computers are ever realized. This would include key-establishment schemes and digital signatures that are based on integer factorization and discrete logarithms (both over finite fields and elliptic curves). Governments and organizations must shift toward a blend of classical methods, QKD, and PQC to protect critical infrastructure and prevent future quantum-powered data breaches. The rise of quantum computers poses a risk to current encryption, making sensitive data vulnerable to "harvest now, decrypt later" attacks.
To address this, NIST has initiated a process to solicit, evaluate, and standardize post-quantum cryptography (PQC) algorithms to secure digital information against both classical and cryptographically relevant quantum computers (CRQCs), which could run algorithms capable of breaking classical encryption. A CRQC can exploit quantum algorithms to weaken or crack current cryptography.
As Africa embraces the quantum future, securing its data is vital. With African researchers contributing to NIST’s PQC efforts, the Africa Quantum Consortium (AQC) and similar groups must now shift from representation to action in implementing these standards.
Why It Matters: With the rapid growth of Africa’s telecommunications sector and increasing reliance on digital infrastructure, securing data long-term is essential. Post-quantum cryptography (PQC) is essential to protect sensitive information, financial transactions, and critical infrastructures from potential "harvest now, decrypt later" attacks that could occur as quantum computers become more capable.
Quantum security has gained global attention, with organizations like the World Economic Forum and European Policy Centre emphasizing its importance. Experts urge Africa to prepare by adopting PQC, particularly in high-stakes sectors such as finance and healthcare. While Africa may not yet be building quantum computers, proactively securing its digital future is vital to avoid vulnerabilities in the quantum age.
Go deeper: Quantum Computing Risk Segmentation and Strategy
Credit: McKinsey
As the development of post-quantum cryptography (PQC) standards accelerates, experts predict that by 2025, these protocols will become mandatory, led by guidelines from the US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). While African countries are expected to adopt these standards, many are still in the early stages. The Africa Quantum Consortium (AQC) is working to ensure Africa’s voice is represented in international PQC standardization efforts through active participation in various working groups. However, representation is not enough—proactive steps are essential.
Key Details and Actions Needed:
Details:
The Secretary of Commerce has approved three Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) for post-quantum cryptography:
FIPS 203, Module-Lattice-Based Key-Encapsulation Mechanism Standard
A key encapsulation mechanism (KEM) is a particular type of key establishment scheme that can be used to establish a shared secret key between two parties communicating over a public channel. The security of ML-KEM is related to the computational difficulty of the Module Learning with Errors problem. At present, ML-KEM is believed to be secure, even against adversaries who possess a quantum computer. This standard specifies three parameter sets for ML-KEM. In order of increasing security strength and decreasing performance, these are ML-KEM-512, ML-KEM-768, and ML-KEM-1024
FIPS 204, Module-Lattice-Based Digital Signature Standard
Module-Lattice-Based Digital Signature Standard, derived from Cryptographic Suite for Algebraic Lattices based on the hardness of finding short vectors in lattices submission specifies a digital signature scheme (CRYSTALS-Dilithium), which is used to detect unauthorized modifications to data and to authenticate the identity of the signatory.
FIPS 205, Stateless Hash-Based Digital Signature Standard
Similar to FIPS 204, 205 is derived from the SPHINCS+ submission. SPHINCS+ is a stateless hash-based signature framework that generates secure digital signatures without needing to remember past operations or keys. The stateless design is a key feature that helps address various cryptographic security concerns. In essence, the security of SPHINCS+ hinges on the strength of cryptographic hash functions and the assumption that finding collisions in them remains a hard problem, even for quantum computers. This makes it a promising approach for ensuring digital signature security in the post-quantum era.
NIST is also developing a FIPS that specifies a digital signature algorithm derived from Fast-Fourier Lattice-based Compact Signatures over NTRU (FALCON) as an additional alternative to these standards. The hard problem is the short integer solution problem (SIS) over NTRU lattices, for which no efficient solving algorithm is currently known in the general case, even with the help of quantum computers
Recommended actions for Africa:
Disseminating Information
Raise awareness of PQC's importance among governments, industries, and the general public.Forming Working Groups
Assemble experts to adapt global PQC standards to Africa's unique contexts and guide their practical implementation.Prioritization of Quantum Security
Like the Creeper virus of the 1970s exposed vulnerabilities in digital systems, quantum computing will reveal new weaknesses. High-level African forums like the Southern African Development Community and the African Union need to prioritize quantum security discussions.Sector-Specific Focus
Quantum computing poses significant risks, particularly to finance and healthcare. These sectors will need to implement protective protocols to shield critical infrastructures from quantum threats.Addressing Regulatory Gaps
Few African countries have formal quantum security regulations in place, with countries like Morocco only beginning to tackle the issue. Central banks across the continent must work to implement encryption methods that can withstand quantum-powered attacks.Following Global Standards
Africa will likely adopt NIST’s PQC standards by 2025, though transitioning to these methods will be complex. Quantum security is akin to Y2K but on a more intricate scale, given the pervasive and often undocumented nature of current cryptographic methods.Long-Term Strategy and Hybrid Solutions
While widespread adoption of quantum technology may take several years, Africa must begin preparing now. Hybrid solutions that combine classical encryption with quantum-resistant algorithms (such as QKD and PQC combined approaches) will help ensure the security of current systems while preparing for future quantum advancements.
Join the Post-Quantum Cryptography Alliance (PQCA)
Organizations adopting quantum-resistant security should consider joining the PQCA, where they can access resources, collaborate, and gain an edge in safeguarding their data from future quantum threats. Ensuring Africa’s quantum future requires immediate action, and PQC offers a path forward.
But: While the transition to PQC is critical for protecting Africa's digital future, it presents significant challenges, particularly resource constraints and the complexity of implementation. Addressing these requires building awareness, ensuring equitable access to PQC technologies, and developing relevant policies.
Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) as a Complementary Approach
QKD offers an additional layer of security using quantum mechanics to create tamper-proof encryption keys. Unlike PQC, which relies on complex algorithms to resist quantum attacks, QKD establishes secure communication channels that expose eavesdropping attempts due to the quantum properties involved. Although QKD doesn't require quantum computers, its practical implementation remains challenging due to the specialized equipment needed.
Africa's Progress in QKD and PQC
Africa has already engaged with QKD technology. Projects like QuantumCity and QuantumStadium in Durban, South Africa, showcased early adoption of quantum-secured communication. These projects, running in municipal fiber optic networks and during the 2010 FIFA World Cup, demonstrate the continent's ability to leverage quantum technologies. These initiatives offer valuable insights into the robustness of QKD systems in real-world, commercial environments.
Lessons Learned and Future Directions
Africa’s experimentation with QKD, as well as potential collaborations with global partners from China, Russia, and Europe, positions it as a unique testbed for quantum solutions. By capitalizing on this experience and forging strategic partnerships, Africa can create customized quantum security solutions that meet its specific needs. Demographics, talent and economic progress offer the continent an opportunity to lead in quantum security innovations.
Call to Action
Now is the time for Africa to solidify its role in the quantum era by prioritizing PQC and QKD initiatives. Collaboration, awareness-building, and policy development will ensure Africa’s digital infrastructure is resilient to future quantum threats.
Final Word: The quantum era offers both immense opportunities and risks for Africa. By embracing a blend of approaches including QKD and post-quantum cryptography (PQC), cultivating local expertise, and building a collaborative ecosystem, African nations can safeguard their digital future while harnessing quantum technology's transformative power. As the transition to quantum security is expected to take 5 to 15 years, a strategic, proactive approach is essential for ensuring resilience and maintaining a competitive edge in the global digital landscape. Now is the time to begin preparing.
Recommended Good Reads: Transitioning to Quantum Security and Next steps in preparing for post-quantum cryptography
What they're saying:
“…even though we have the scientists and the mathematicians and are building up this expertise on the continent we’ll be making use of overseas facilities for the foreseeable future…Regional organizations and the African Union should put quantum security on their agenda, if they don’t already. While we have a lot of problems in Africa that need attention and there are a lot of variables, quantum should be discussed at a high level…As far as I can tell, we don’t have a single significant post-quantum cryptography effort or quantum security effort for designing new algorithms. There are people across Africa advocating for the need for post-quantum cryptography, but the vast majority don’t yet understand that they should be taking action now.”
Professor Bruce Watson, Director of the Computational Thinking for AI Group, Centre for AI Research (CAIR), Stellenbosch University, South Africa
“It’s likely Africa will follow the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) guidelines which are based in the US and we expect them to mandate the move to post-quantum cryptography in 2025. We anticipate it will be similar to Y2K, even worse because crypto is everywhere, has never been properly documented, and is sometimes hard-coded in applications and certificates.”
Jean-Francois Bobier, Partner and Vice President, Deep Tech at Boston Consulting Group
“The continent’s diverse economic and technological landscape means different countries will engage with this issue at different paces and levels of intensity. However, given the global nature of digital security and communication, quantum security is a conversation worth having.”
Steven Cohen, Managing Director of Triple S Solutions
“Quantum computing offers the potential to solve previously unapproachable problems while simultaneously threatening many digital protections we take for granted. Cryptography is foundational for securing data, users, devices, and services. The necessary conversion to post-quantum cryptography represents one of the largest and most complex technology migrations in the digital era…”
Jon Felten, Senior Director, Trustworthy Technologies, Security & Trust Organization, Cisco Systems
Call to Action
Join the AQC Quantum Working Groups!
We’re forming Quantum Working Groups to advance Africa's quantum technology efforts. Whether you're a researcher, educator, or enthusiast, this is your chance to:
Drive quantum research & innovation
Enhance education and outreach
Collaborate with industry & government
Build international partnerships
Sign up to join a team of leading experts shaping Africa’s quantum future.
First Call Deadline: 31/10/2024.
For more details, contact us at admin@africaquantum.org
Let’s secure Africa’s quantum future together!
Event Highlights
Congratulations to Victor Adeyemi and The University of Ibadan Quantum Computing Club, and the German University in Cairo for hosting Qiskit sponsored events in Africa.
Sponsored events provide an opportunity for students to showcase their leadership skills by hosting their own campus quantum computing event, with support and resources from IBM, aimed at growing the quantum community through Qiskit.
These events are supported by extension events at Obafemi Awolowo University (Nigeria), Ubunifu College (Kenya), University of Lagos (Nigeria), and University of Uyo (Nigeria).
Register for sponsored events here:
The University of Ibadan Quantum Computing Club
Your Voice Matters: Shape the Future of Quantum Open-Source Software!
The Unitary Fund's 2024 Quantum Open-Source Software (QOSS) Survey is here, and it needs YOUR input!
This survey is for everyone involved in quantum technology, from coders and developers to students and researchers. It's your chance to share your experiences, highlight needs, and influence the direction of the field.
Why should the Africa Quantum community care?
Imagine a quantum ecosystem built without our voices, without our perspectives. It would be an ecosystem that doesn't address our unique challenges or leverage our strengths. By participating in this survey, you directly contribute to:
Building a more inclusive quantum community: Your responses will help identify gaps and opportunities to make quantum software more accessible and relevant to Africa.
Influencing research priorities: Share what matters most to you and help steer the development of quantum software towards applications that benefit Africa.
Supporting initiatives like those that made the 2020 Africa Quantum Leadership Summit possible: The Unitary Fund, through microgrants, has been instrumental in supporting African quantum initiatives. Your participation helps them understand our ecosystem better.
Take the survey today and make your voice heard! It only takes a few minutes and will have a lasting impact
Remember: The Unitary Fund supports projects that champion inclusivity and diversity in quantum computing. Let's join them to make sure quantum technology benefits everyone.
Quantum Spotlight: Temitope Adeniyi - Empowering Africa's Quantum Future
This past month, the Africa Quantum Consortium had the pleasure of welcoming into the community Temitope Adeniyi, a PhD student at Cleveland State University and a rising star in the world of quantum computing. Originally from Nigeria, Temitope's journey highlights the incredible talent and potential that exists within Africa to contribute to the global quantum revolution.
Temitope's research focuses on the exciting intersection of machine learning, AI, and quantum technologies for designing new materials. She's passionate about using these cutting-edge tools to extract knowledge from complex datasets, leading to the discovery of innovative materials with applications in various fields.
But Temitope's impact extends far beyond the lab. She's also the founder of STEM Zone Nigeria, an organization dedicated to sparking innovation in Africa by inspiring young minds through hands-on STEM education. Temitope is particularly passionate about empowering young girls, showing them the transformative power of technology to solve real-world problems.
As Temitope eloquently puts it, understanding complex research is just the first step. The real challenge lies in making others care, and she does this brilliantly by using relatable examples, simplifying complex concepts, and highlighting the potential impact of quantum computing. Her work has even been featured on WKYC Studios Channel 3 in Cleveland, showcasing her dedication to educating the public about this transformative technology.
Temitope is not only conducting groundbreaking research but also paving the way for future generations of African quantum scientists. From developing quantum curricula to teaching the first Quantum Machine Learning course at Cleveland State University and leading workshops for high school students, Temitope embodies the spirit of innovation and leadership that will propel Africa to the forefront of the quantum era. Her journey is a testament to the power of education and mentorship to unlock Africa's quantum potential.
Team Picks: 5 Essential Links
The world of quantum computing is buzzing with exciting breakthroughs in error correction! Researchers are making strides towards more reliable and scalable quantum computers through several promising approaches:
A 101-qubit surface code memory has been demonstrated, operating below the critical error threshold. This breakthrough signifies a significant step towards building larger, more reliable quantum computers.
A new fault-tolerant quantum computing scheme using linear optics and encoded fusion significantly boosts error resilience, enabling efficient computation with limited resources.
Another team has achieved a significant reduction in logical errors by combining cat qubits with a repetition code. This approach to concatenated bosonic codes offers a path towards more hardware-efficient fault-tolerant quantum computation.
These advancements are paving the way for a future where quantum computers can tackle real-world problems with greater reliability and efficiency.
Quantum and HPC Integration in Austria
In a pioneering move, the University of Innsbruck and AQT have successfully integrated a quantum computer into a high-performance computing (HPC) environment. This hybrid system, combining the power of supercomputer LEO 5 with a quantum computer, will be used to tackle complex problems in fields such as chemistry, materials science, and optimization, opening up new possibilities for scientific discovery and innovation in Austria.
IBM Expands Quantum Data Center to Advance Algorithm Discovery Globally
Latest 156-qubit Quantum Heron processor boasts impressive improvements over its 2022 predecessors:
Error rates reduced by 16 times
Performance increased 25-fold
US Implements Controls on Quantum Computing
The U.S. Commerce Department's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) has implemented new export controls on critical technologies, including quantum computing and advanced semiconductors. These controls aim to protect national security by regulating the movement of technologies with potential military applications.
Qatar's Telecom Giant Pours $769,000 into Pioneering Quantum Communication Testbed
Ooredoo, Qatar's leading telecom operator, is funding a groundbreaking project at Hamad Bin Khalifa University's Qatar Centre for Quantum Computing (QC2) with an estimated QR 2,800,000 investment. The initiative aims to build Qatar's first quantum communication testbed, leveraging quantum cryptography for unbreakable security. This project positions Qatar as a regional leader in quantum technology, laying the foundation for the country's future quantum networks and next-generation Quantum Internet. The collaboration between Ooredoo and QC2 not only advances secure communication infrastructure but also reinforces Qatar's commitment to technological innovation and its ambition to become a hub for cutting-edge quantum research and development.
Picture of the Month
Quantum minds connect in Montreal! Temitope Adeniyi representing #Africa at #IEEEQuantum2024.
Share your quantum moments with our team at admin@africaquantum.org.
Made with the essence of Ubuntu by the AQC Team.
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