The Africa Quantum Consortium Memo
Monthly Updates on Quantum Progress in Africa, December 31, 2024
In this newsletter:
1. Africa's Quantum Leaders and Rising Stars in 2024
2. Sign up to attend AQC meeting at IYQ2025 Launch event, Paris, 4 Feb 2025
3. Team News Picks and Linkfest for 2024
4. Quantum Lens 2024
And more... 🎉✨ Happy New Year from AQC! 🎄🎁💫
1 Big Thing: Africa's Quantum Leap in 2025 - The Quantum Stage is Set for Africa
As the International Year of Quantum (IYQ) takes centerstage, Africa is not just on the map; it's leading the charge. 2024 has been a landmark year, marked by breakthroughs, bold initiatives, and the visionary leadership that's defining the quantum future.
A heartfelt thanks to HE Harold Agyeman, Ambassador Anna Bossman and Riche-Mike Wellington, for pushing Africa's quantum agenda at the UN. Their efforts got us the International Year of Quantum Science 2025.
Collaboration: The Key to Quantum Success
The global health crisis taught us the power of collaboration, yet in the quantum space, we recognize there's room for more. The Africa Quantum Consortium is our response—an initiative to boost teamwork, align our strategies, and amplify Africa's voice worldwide, ensuring we're not just participants but pioneers in quantum technology.
2025: More Than Just Awareness
Next year isn't about merely talking quantum; it's about action. We're focusing on real progress in investments, policy, and solutions. Here's where you come in—connect with the movers and shakers who are shaping this narrative:
Engage with Visionaries: These leaders are your partners in driving quantum forward. They're the ones setting the stage for Africa in 2025.
Be Proactive: Join the conversation, share knowledge, create opportunities. Whether it's through the Consortium or other platforms, your involvement is crucial.
Africa's Quantum Leaders and Rising Stars:
Professor Aba Andam: Pioneering Ghanaian Physicist, a luminary in the field and influential voice on the International Year of Quantum steering committee. First Ghanaian female physicist, former President of the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences, and Chair of the Board of the Ghana Nuclear Regulatory Authority. UNESCO Chair for Women in Science in Africa.
Engagement Details:
Impact: International Year of Quantum steering committee (Member)Articles: Ghana urged to boost development with research-policy synergyProfessor Andrew Forbes: Champion for Photonics and Quantum Advancement at the University of the Witwatersrand. Founder of the Structured Light Laboratory and instrumental in crafting South Africa's Quantum Roadmap. Recognized for exceptional mentorship. Serves on the IYQ steering committee.
Engagement Details:
LinkedIn: Connect hereImpact: Optica, Wits University makes light work, Communicating with distortion-free light, Toward a quantum future for South Africa, WitsQ: Pioneering South Africa’s Quantum Future, 2025 Quantum West Plenary speakerArticles: Check his group here to explore opportunities, Google scholar, Researchers Securely ‘Teleport’ Images Across a Network Using Only Light, Large quantum alphabets with a tiny footprint
Dr. Peggy Oti-Boateng: Executive Director of the African Academy of Sciences, a driving force for scientific excellence and collaboration in Africa. Key figure in science policy and sustainable development, with a focus on the growing role of quantum. Steering committee member of IYQ.
Engagement Details:
LinkedIn: Connect here and if you are an advanced Ph.D. student, check out this funded capacity building opportunity → Applications for the 2025 YSSP are open until 13 January 2025Impact: Science Summit 2024 - Research and innovation for the SDGs: Insights from Africa, AI for social good: Future proofing the world of tomorrow, Building an Inclusive, Sustainable, and Resilient Future for All, World Science Forum 2024-Equitable Research Partnership for Impact,Articles and Publications: Mainstreaming Gender in the National Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Policy of Kenya, How to transform Africa’s food system
Professor Ahmed Younes: Leading Quantum Computing Expert at Alexandria University, Vice Dean, and Founder of the Alexandria Quantum Computing Group (AleQCG). Pioneer in quantum algorithms and leader within QEgypt, shaping quantum education and research. Representative of Egypt in World Quantum Day and steering committee member of IYQ.
Engagement Details:
LinkedIn: Connect here and follow the Egypt Quantum community here inc QAfrica, complete survey here to help shape their activities, participate at the 2nd IEEE International Conference on Machine Intelligence and Smart Innovation (ICMISI2025)Impact: HPC, Quantum Computing, AI, Getting Started with Quantum Computing Tech, World Quantum Day in Egypt 2024 (Host),Articles and Publications: Publications, Software and Tools, Google Scholar
Dr. Amal Kasry: Advocate for Capacity Building in Basic Science, Research, Innovation and Engineering at UNESCO, ensuring Africa's inclusion in the global quantum ecosystem. Expertise in materials science and nano-biotechnology with global experience in academia and industry. Steering committee member of IYQ.
Engagement Details:
LinkedIn: Connect here and nominate young STEM innovators from Africa for UNESCO-Al Fozan International Prize for the Promotion of Young Scientists calls for nominations by April 15, 2025, Support UNESCO's initiative to provide remote lab access for African scientists here → UNESCO’s Remote Access to Lab Equipment (UNESRALE) Initiative,Impact: 2024 Innovations Dialogue: Quantum technologies and their implications for international peace and security (Panelist), Sixth African Science, Technology and Innovation Forum, The Digital Transformation Dialogue 2024: Exploring the implications of quantum technologies: prospects and challengesArticles: Strengthening Basic Sciences: Towards Sustainable Societies, UNESCO outlines recovery plan for Ukrainian science, Google Scholar
Prof. Mohammed Daoud: Pioneering Quantum Physicist & Research Leader
National Coordinator of the Moroccan Network of Quantum Information and a leading expert in quantum physics and mathematical physics. Professor at Ibn Tofail University, Founding member of multiple scientific societies and a key figure in shaping Morocco’s quantum research landscape.
Engagement Details:
Connect here
Impact: Coordinator of Moroccan Quantum Information Network, Founding Member of Moroccan Society of Mathematical Physics, ICTP Associate Member
Events & Contributions: Organizer of international conferences on quantum information and mathematical physics
Articles & Publications: Research in quantum information, quantum coherence, and fractional quantum statistics
Dr. Prince Osei: Leading figure in Quantum Technology in Africa, serving as Lead Scientist & Director for Quantum Leap Africa (QLA). Member of the World Economic Forum's Global Future Council on the Future of Quantum Economy, focusing on the societal impact of quantum technologies.
Engagement Details:
LinkedIn: Connect here and check out opportunities and open positions hereImpact: World Economic Forum's Global Future Council on the Future of Quantum Economy (Participant), Quantum for Good: Setting the Stage for the International Year of Quantum, The Digital Transformation Dialogue 2024: Exploring the implications of quantum technologies: prospects and challengesArticles and Publications: Research, Quantum Economy Blueprint
Gillian Makamara: Innovation Driver at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), focusing on Quality of Service and the Global Initiative on AI and Data Commons, essential infrastructure for quantum advancements. Expertise in telecommunication network engineering. Member of the IYQ steering committee.
Engagement Details:
LinkedIn: Connect hereImpact: Africa Cybersafe Symposium (Speaker), ITU initiativesArticles: Gillian Makamara contributes to ACM Selects
Professor Francesco Petruccione: Professor of Quantum Computing and Director of the National Institute for Theoretical and Computational Sciences (NITheCS) at Stellenbosch University, leading foundational quantum research in South Africa and fostering international collaboration.
Engagement Details:
LinkedIn: Connect hereImpact: American Physical Society (APS) March Meeting (Speaker - ‘Education across continents: the NITheCs way’), 'The Future of Scientific Computing' symposium at ICTP (Speaker), Colloquium 'Charting the Future of NITheCS: Progress and Prospects in Research, Training, Engagement, and Africa' (Presenter), Inaugural Lecture at Stellenbosch University - 'The Adjacent Quantum: Bridging Theory and Technology for a Quantum Future'Articles/Publications: Recordings of the NiTheCS Colloquium on YouTube, learn more or sign up for updates through their website, check out their work here, Google Scholar
Dr. Yaseera Ismaeli: Leader in Optics and Photonics, particularly in Quantum Science and Technology. Hosted the 26th Congress of the International Commission for Optics in South Africa for the first time ever. Chairs the Optica committee on Optics in Quantum Science and Technology and is a Senior Lecturer at Stellenbosch University.
Engagement Details:
LinkedIn: Connect hereImpact: 26th Congress of the International Commission for Optics in Africa (Host), SA QuTI Unveiled: Navigating Quantum Frontiers, Multilateral Joint Research Workshop between South Africa, China and India, Watch Quantum Possibilities: Shaping the Future of Innovation, Optics and Photonics in Africa Conference (Host), Spring School on Theoretical and Computational Foundations of Quantum TechnologiesArticles: Check out her work here → Google Scholar, Optica
Professor Mourad Telmini: Professor of Physics at the University of Tunis El Manar, leading the Laboratory of Atomic and Molecular Spectroscopy & Applications (LSAMA). Advocate for tech sovereignty in Africa through quantum technologies. Founder of the Tunisian Quantum Network QUANTUN.
Engagement Details:
LinkedIn: Connect hereImpact: Speaker at ISI in Motion 1.0, The 8th African School of Fundamental Physics and Applications (ASP2024), Moderator at Quantum Innovation Summit 2024, Join the Tunisian Quantum Network QUANTUN Youth Branch in Tunisia!Articles: Read Tunisian Quantum Network Launched, Expanding Reach of Sector in Africa and check Google Scholar for research
Dorcas Attuabea Addo: Lecturer specializing in Variational Quantum Algorithms at the University of Education, Winneba. Actively involved in enhancing Quantum Science and Technology education in Ghana and Africa, notably through the Unitary Fund supported eLAIS-QST project at KNUST.
Engagement Details:
LinkedIn: Connect here to learn, collaborate and exchangeImpact: Check out the E-learning African International School in Quantum Science and Technology (eLAIS-QST)News/Articles: Learn more → GQuantum Education
Dr. Mohamed Taha Rouabah: Leader of CQTech, driving quantum advancements through leadership, awards, and collaborations with internation quantum leaders like WOMANIUM, qBraid, Purdue University and Pascal, and the development of quantum solutions for Africa. ARISE Fellow, leading research in topological quantum computing.
Engagement Details:
LinkedIn:Connect hereImpact:Speaker at MENA Quantum Conference, CQTech Team Wins Pasqal-CMC Microsystems Hackathon, ARISE High-Level Scientific Convening in Hammamet, Tunisia (Participant)Articles/Publications: CQTech Latest News, Publications
Dr. Isaac Nape: Quantum Entanglement and Computing Researcher, pioneering work in quantum and classical optics, quantum imaging, and quantum communication at the University of the Witwatersrand. Recognized by Optica and awarded the Meiring Naudé Medal and Jubilee Silver Medal. OPTICA Emerging Leader in Optics Chair.
Engagement Details:
LinkedIn:Connect here to exploreImpact:ICOAM 2024, Computing - Wits UniversityArticles/Publications: Check out some his work here → Google scholarEmulating quantum computing with optical matrix multiplication,
Variational approach to learning photonic unitary operators,
Quantum cryptography with structured photons,
Non-local skyrmions as topologically resilient quantum entangled states of light,
Researchers use laser beams to pioneer new quantum computing breakthrough
AbdulMalek Baitulmal: Quantum Technology Advocate, driving quantum adoption in MENA through his roles at Quanta-ly and OneQuantum Libya. Focuses on consulting, training, and strategic development to prepare industries for quantum tech, aligning with UN SDGs. Dedicated to closing the quantum knowledge gap and fostering a skilled quantum workforce.
Engagement Details:
LinkedIn:Connect here and explore his servicesImpact:QAfrica, GPTuesdays Quantum Summit, QLibya, Miami Qiskit Fall FestArticles:Check out some of his work here → OneQuantum Libya Newsletter, Why Should and How Can Quantum Technologies Be Leveraged at National Levels?
Sahar Ben Rached: Quantum Computing Advocate & Researcher, advancing quantum technology through advocacy, policy influence, and hardware research. Organized Quantum Key Stakeholder Assembly at Puzzle X. Ph.D. Candidate in Quantum Computer Architecture at Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya focusing on chip-scale communication for modular quantum computers. More about Sahar here →Women of Quantum Technology
Engagement Details:
Impact:Connect hereEvents:Chat to her about Quantum Innovation Summit Dubai and register for 𝐐𝐈𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐞! Listen to Quantum Frontiers: The Journey from Theoretical Algorithms to Real-World Applications.Articles and Publications:Check out some of her work here →
John Tseriwa Gwasira: IT entrepreneur, decade+ in tech, solving global issues with transformative solutions. Moderated quantum computing talk at Africa Tech Festival 2023. Drives quantum tech across Africa via hackathons, talks, and biz forums. Hosts podcasts on Africa-specific quantum solutions. Aiming to accelerate quantum tech adoption on the continent.
Engagement Details:
Connectwith John on LinkedIn to learn moreImpact:EventsReadhis Articles
Sibusisiwe Makhanya: Research Manager & Leader at IBM Research Africa, spearheading research in Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Computing. Focuses on applying AI to accelerate discoveries in climate science, sustainability, and health. Expertise in statistics and applied statistical learning.
Engagement Details:
LinkedIn: Connect here and exploreImpact: Africa Tech Festival 2023 Panel on Quantum Technologies, IBM Quantum and Wits: Quantum Computing Talks | Meetup,Articles: Google Scholar, Reflecting on my participation in Science Forum South Africa 2024
The energy is palpable, the progress undeniable. As we dive into the International Year of Quantum 2025, Africa's quantum community is not just watching the future unfold – it is actively building it. Join us as we amplify these remarkable achievements and pave the way for an even more impactful year ahead.
Ready to make the most of your network in the Year of Quantum? Click here to link to a practical guide on leveraging this newsletter to forge valuable connections and expand your opportunities. [LINK]
What they're saying:
"The world is becoming more technological and people have to be able to make informed decisions…they're part of society, they're making decisions for their communities, and they should have an understanding of science and what it means so they leverage and utilize available technologies to the benefit of their communities." Joseph James Niamela, Emeritus Scientist at ICTP
“We realized as early as 2017 that Africa was behind the curve in understanding the need for quantum technologies, and the potential applications. In 2018, AIMS founded Quantum Leap Africa (QLA) to help prepare Africa for the future of quantum technology. One of the main components of QLA is devoted to quantum training and research, related to and anticipating powerful new QT, including quantum computing, quantum communication and quantum sensors, to develop experts in Africa who are ready to utilize the power of quantum technology for the benefit of Africa and humanity at large” Dr. Prince Osei, Lead Scientist at QLA and member of WEF Quantum Economy Network
“We have to reimagine education and research to create the Africa we want. We can’t do this alone. Let’s work together.” Dr Peggy Oti-Boateng, the executive director of the African Academy of Sciences (AAS)
“This second quantum revolution is leading to breakthroughs in using quantum effects like superposition and entanglement for new applications…when these phenomena can be applied broadly to control and engineer matter at the level of single quanta, and even single atoms, they will spark transformations in a multitude of technologies.” John Doyle, Henry B. Silsbee Professor of Physics at Harvard University, co-director of the Harvard Quantum Initiative, and president-elect of the American Physical Society.
“We believe that the only way to shape the future is to do it in a sustainable and inclusive way. Access to science and technology must remain open to all, the cutting-edge tools that we develop must be shared with society.” Enrica Porcari, Head of the Information Technology department at CERN
Call-to-Action
Endorse the Africa Quantum Consortium for a Global Quantum Voice from Africa!
Join the Africa Quantum Consortium (AQC) in its mission to secure the future of quantum on our continent! We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our early supporters and founding partners for paving the way. Now, we're ready to take the next step to formalize our structure and amplify our impact.
By endorsing the AQC you empower us to represent your interests on a global scale, fostering innovation, collaboration, and growth in quantum technologies.
Endorse us today, and together, let's give the AQC the clear mandate to be the top voice of quantum advancement from Africa to the world.
Shape the Legacy: Be Part of the IYQ Launch Side Event in Paris!
Attend AQC side event in Paris - Feb 4, 2024
Ignite Your Quantum Future – Opportunities to Lead, Connect, and Shape the Landscape!
The Quantum Revolution in Africa is gaining unstoppable momentum, and now is your moment to seize a pivotal role! Are you ready to move from observer to architect? The Africa Quantum Consortium (AQC) is spearheading transformative initiatives, and we invite you to join us at the forefront.
Event Details
Venue: UNESCO Headquarters, Room I & Room II
Dates: 4–5 February 2025. Doors open at 8:30 AM.
Following the incredible energy and progress generated by our steering committee, the International Year of Quantum (IYQ) launch event in Paris presents a historic opportunity. The AQC will convene a crucial meeting on the sidelines of this event, and we need your leadership to define the future of quantum technologies in Africa.
If you are a quantum leader passionate about driving tangible progress on the continent, plan to be in Paris. This is your chance to directly influence the agenda and next steps of the AQC.
Since our inception in mid-2023, the AQC has achieved significant milestones:
Amplified our reach: Building a vibrant community through our engaging website and newsletter.
Activated expert networks: Launching dynamic working groups focused on key quantum challenges and opportunities.
Forged global alliances: Establishing impactful connections and representation with leading international organizations like the Open Quantum Institute, QED-C, GENCI, and at prestigious forums including Quantum Noir, NSBP, Q2B Silicon Valley, IEEE, ATARC, and IEC.
Now, we're entering a critical growth phase, forming an Interim Executive Team to steer the consortium towards even greater impact. As a founding member of the AQC, you have the unique power to:
Lead with Purpose: Extend your influence continent-wide, building a thriving quantum ecosystem that will future-proof Africa.
Gain Global Recognition: Position yourself and your organization as a pioneering force in quantum science, expanding your international network and influence.
Build a High-Impact Team: Help shape a results-oriented team that sets the global benchmark for achievement and engagement.
This is more than just a leadership opportunity – it's a chance to build a lasting legacy, defining Africa's quantum future for generations to come.
Express your interest in joining us in Paris on the sidelines of the IYQ launch event to receive more details.
While the AQC is not sponsoring attendance, your presence will be invaluable. Don't miss this opportunity to network, collaborate, and directly impact the trajectory of quantum in Africa at this landmark event. It's a powerful way to achieve multiple goals at once!
Share your interest and thoughts at admin@africaquantum.org.
Become a Quantum Science & Technology Advisor and Advocate!
Inspired by recent calls for greater science advisory capacity in government (see Nature articles: [link 1], [link 2]), our advisors are eager to empower emerging PIs and leaders. Do you have insights into how governments work, policymaker priorities, and the effective use of evidence?
Be a pioneer in Africa! With our partners we plan to offer unique opportunities for African leaders to:
Bridge the gap between science and policy.
Forge a network of science and engineering leaders.
Develop and implement solutions to pressing societal challenges.
Shape Policy – Shape the Future!
Sign up as a mentor or as a mentee here admin@africaquantum.org
Join the AQC Quantum Working Groups – Drive Innovation Together!
Ready to roll up your sleeves and contribute directly to Africa's quantum advancement? Our Quantum Working Groups are where the action happens. Whether you're a researcher, educator, or industry expert, this is your chance to:
Drive cutting-edge quantum research and innovation.
Elevate quantum education and outreach initiatives.
Forge powerful collaborations with industry and government.
Build vital international partnerships.
Don't miss the second call deadline: January 31, 2025!
Sign up now to join a team of leading experts shaping Africa’s quantum future.
Contact us at collaborate@africaquantum.org for more details.
Connect and Collaborate: Join the Africa Quantum Consortium Discord Channel!
Calling all Quantum Community Leaders in Africa! The AQC is excited to announce the launch of our dedicated Discord channel – your central hub for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and synergy.
Here's how you benefit:
Maintain your community's autonomy while gaining access to a continent-wide network.
Share valuable learnings, resources, and best practices.
Unlock new opportunities for partnerships and exchanges, both regionally and globally.
As the International Year of Quantum takes off in 2025, this interconnectedness is crucial. Let's unite to ensure Africa takes its rightful place at the forefront of quantum innovation!
Take Action Now:
Join the Discord channel today: [Link to Discord]
Encourage your community leaders to sign up.
Reach out to collaborate@africaquantum.org to explore partnership opportunities.
Let's build a thriving, interconnected quantum future for Africa and beyond, together!
Influence Global Policy: Emphasize Quantum in the UN Survey – Deadline Approaching!
Time is running out to make your voice heard on the global stage! The UN Science Advisory Board's (SAB) crucial horizon scan is closing soon. While the survey covers many areas, it's vital that we highlight the transformative potential of quantum technologies for Africa.
From tackling climate change to fueling economic growth, quantum offers powerful solutions. Don't miss this opportunity to justify the importance of quantum and influence global policy. Take the survey before the deadline: [Link to Survey]
Unlock Academic Opportunities: Explore the Intra-Africa Academic Mobility Scheme!
The European Union's Intra-Africa Academic Mobility Scheme offers incredible scholarship opportunities for African students and staff pursuing Master's, Doctoral degrees, and professional development.
Embark on a transformative academic journey and contribute to the growth of quantum expertise in Africa! Learn more here: [Link to Intra-Africa Scheme]
Sign up for Quantum Morocco 2 conference
With 80 funded places available and generously supported by the NATO Science for Peace and Security Program. Spots are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Secure your place today. Register here
The Quantum Africa conference series is back in 2025
Set in Morocco, this event centers on quantum science and technology, fostering exchanges and collaborations among African nations and with the global community. Its goals are to position Africa as a leader in research and development and to enlighten African stakeholders about emerging opportunities in this field.
For details on how to join one of the oldest quantum tech events on African soil, keep an eye on their website here
The International Conference on Quantum Technology for High-Energy Physics (QT4HEP2025)
📢 Registration Deadline Extended!
Missed your chance to register for QT4HEP 2025? Don’t worry—registration is now open until January 10th, 2025! Register here
The International Conference on Quantum Technology for High-Energy Physics (QT4HEP2025) returns to CERN on 20–24 January 2025. It’s your opportunity to engage with experts, exchange ideas, and explore the frontiers of quantum technology and high-energy physics.
Team Picks: Gazing into the Quantum Horizon – The Stories Shaping 2025 and Beyond
What's next for quantum? Our team has curated the essential reads that will define the landscape in 2025 and beyond. Dive into these pivotal developments and stay ahead of the curve.
1. Return to Helgoland: Celebrating 100 Years of Quantum Mechanics
Why it Matters: Article commemorates the centennial of Werner Heisenberg's seminal work on quantum mechanics at Helgoland, highlighting the island's role in one of the most transformative moments in physics. It discusses the Helgoland 2025 meeting, aimed at exploring both the foundational and practical aspects of quantum mechanics, reflecting on how this theory has shaped modern technology and science. The piece also questions the often romanticized narrative of Heisenberg's breakthrough, offering a critical look at historical accuracy and the true impact of his work.
What's Next: The Helgoland 2025 workshop will likely spur further research and discussions on quantum mechanics, bridging the gap between theoretical foundations and real-world applications. Participants and followers of this event should look forward to new interpretations or applications of quantum theory, possibly influencing quantum computing, sensing, and other emerging technologies. The historical reflection might also encourage a re-evaluation of how we understand the development of scientific theories, potentially leading to more accurate historiography in science.
Helgoland 2025: African Quantum Leaders, Your Experiences Are Key to Our Future. If you're among the distinguished African leaders invited to Helgoland 2025, the Africa Quantum Consortium is eager to connect. Your participation offers a unique vantage point on the evolving landscape of quantum mechanics. Sharing your observations and insights with us is crucial. It allows us to learn directly from your experiences, strategically positioning the African quantum community to remain a vital and influential voice in the global quantum narrative. Help us ensure Africa's continued relevance – share your Helgoland takeaways with us.
2. Google's Willow Chip: A Step Forward in Quantum Computing
Why it Matters: Google's unveiling of the Willow quantum chip marks a significant breakthrough in quantum computing, showcasing its potential to solve complex problems much faster than classical computers. This advancement highlights Google's lead in quantum technology and could impact industries like pharmaceuticals and finance by enabling unprecedented simulations and data analysis.
Go inside the Google Quantum AI lab
What's Next: The focus will be on demonstrating practical, real-world applications of this technology. Investors and tech enthusiasts should watch for Google's progress towards "useful, beyond-classical" computations that could pave the way for quantum computing's broader adoption, potentially influencing investment in quantum technology sectors.
In related news, IBM experimentally realize error-mitigated dynamic circuits and circuit cutting to create quantum states requiring periodic connectivity using up to 142 qubits spanning two QPUs with 127 qubits each connected in real time with a classical link paving the way to scalable quantum systems. IBM’s quantum-centric supercomputing (QCSC) roadmap envisions systems combining multiple QPUs with multiple classic processors like CPUs and GPUs, dividing work based on which processor type is best suited to a given algorithm. More here.
Read related content on the significance of quantum error correction here and be prepared to embrace more new quantum computer jargon beyond NISQ here
3. Quantum Computing: Peter Zoller and Ignacio Cirac on the Quantum Revolution
Why it Matters: This episode features insights from quantum computing pioneers Peter Zoller and Ignacio Cirac, discussing the evolution of trapped ion quantum computing. They delve into fundamental challenges like error correction and detection methods, providing a historical perspective on key experiments and milestones. Understanding their journey offers a blueprint for overcoming obstacles in quantum computing, spotlighting its potential to revolutionize sectors through applications in cryptography, material science, and more.
What's Next: Listeners are encouraged to explore how these foundational works translate into practical applications and commercialization of quantum technology. The conversation highlights the importance of fault-tolerant computing and error correction, areas where future research could significantly advance the field. For students and young scientists, this podcast serves as both inspiration and a guide, offering strategic advice for those looking to contribute to or leverage quantum computing's vast potential. Keep an eye on new developments in quantum physics and technology, as these will shape the landscape of scientific research and technological innovation.
4. The Voice of the Community: Key Insights from the Unitary Fund Survey
Why it matters: The Unitary Fund's 2024 survey offers a crucial snapshot of the global quantum open-source ecosystem. For Africa, this data provides invaluable benchmarks and identifies key areas for growth and collaboration. By understanding the challenges and priorities of the wider community, we can strategically focus our efforts, contribute meaningfully to open-source development, and ensure African voices are heard in shaping the future of quantum software and tools. This is about building a collaborative and impactful quantum community on the continent.
5. Coexistence of Quantum and Classical Communication in Optical Fiber
Why It Matters
This groundbreaking study demonstrates the first instance of quantum teleportation coexisting with classical telecommunications traffic within the same optical fiber. By leveraging innovative techniques to mitigate noise and interference, researchers achieved successful quantum state transfers alongside high-power classical data, paving the way for integrating quantum networking with existing fiber infrastructure.
What’s Next
The findings set the stage for scalable quantum-classical hybrid networks. Future research will focus on extending the distance of such coexistence, optimizing fidelity, and exploring advanced applications like quantum repeaters and entanglement swapping within multi-node fiber networks.
6. U.S. DOE's Quantum Information Science Roadmap: A Vision for the Future
Why It Matters
This comprehensive decadal roadmap outlines the scientific challenges and technical milestones essential for advancing Quantum Information Science (QIS) toward real-world applications. By bridging innovation in research with federal and industry collaboration, the U.S. Department of Energy is charting a transformative path to unlock the potential of QIS technologies.
For the Africa Quantum Community, it offers a unique insight into open roles for contribution and alignment on critical challenges facing QIS technologies on their path to utility and adoption. Researchers can target key challenges; business leaders can plan investments around NISQ-era opportunities and policymakers can pinpoint gaps and strategize for diplomatic engagement and alignment.
What’s Next
The roadmap provides a path to fault tolerance and sets the foundation for ambitious QIS goals, with a focus on breakthroughs in quantum computing, sensing, and communication. The Africa Quantum Community is encouraged to collaborate globally, align efforts strategically, and contribute to realizing these milestones through expertise, investment, and innovation.
7. Check out the 𝐌𝐚𝐩 of 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐐𝐮𝐛𝐢𝐭 𝐋𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐞 – (𝐃𝐞𝐜 2024 𝐄𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧)
8. China's Quantum Tidal Wave: 504-Qubit Breakthrough Signals Major Shift
Why it matters: Recent reports of China's Tianyan-504, a 504-qubit superconducting computer powered by the "Xiaohong" chip, confirm a significant expansion in their quantum computing capabilities. This achievement, though anticipated by some industry watchers, signifies a major leap in the number of qubits achieved by a Chinese superconducting system. Crucially, this development coincides with a strategic shift in China's quantum landscape. While tech giants like Baidu and Alibaba have scaled back their quantum efforts, state-backed telecommunications giant China Telecom is aggressively filling the void, indicating a potential pivot towards government-led quantum development and deployment. This concentration of resources could accelerate China's progress in achieving practical quantum advantage.
What's Next: The focus will likely shift towards demonstrating practical applications and improving the performance and stability of the Tianyan-504 system. Further developments from China Telecom's quantum subsidiaries are expected, potentially including cloud-based quantum computing services and the exploration of quantum solutions for telecommunications and other strategic sectors. The impact of this state-backed push on the global quantum race will be significant, potentially intensifying competition and requiring other nations to reassess their quantum strategies and investments. Monitoring China's patent filings, research publications, and strategic partnerships will be crucial to understanding the trajectory of their quantum ambitions.
9. Case Study Demonstrating Information-Theoretic (IT) Security for Secure Key Material Exchange in Finance
Background: Wells Fargo, one of the largest banks in the United States, has been exploring advanced cryptographic solutions to safeguard their data against future quantum computing threats. This case study focuses on their collaboration with Qrypt to implement a novel approach to symmetric key generation using Qrypt's Digital Quantum Key Distribution (DQKD) technology, which promises to eliminate the traditional vulnerabilities associated with key exchange.
Why It Matters: Your Roadmap to Quantum-Resistant Security Starts Here. This Proof of Technology (PoT) provides a crucial real-world demonstration of Information-Theoretic (IT) security in action, specifically for the secure exchange of cryptographic keys. By exploring encryption methods that are inherently robust, stateless, and locally computable, this case study offers invaluable lessons for business leaders. To effectively prepare for the quantum era and beyond, it's essential to understand the practicalities, technical considerations, and viability of emerging Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) solutions. This PoT offers a crucial learning opportunity to inform your strategic decisions and resource planning. Read on to learn more.
Linkfest Retrospective 2024
Advancements in Quantum Computing—Viewpoint: BuildingAdoption and Competency in Industry
Quantum simulator could help uncover materials for high-performance electronics
Market Analysis of Quantum Computing Use Cases in Financial Services
Global Room-Temperature Superconductivity in Graphite
Quantum Error Correction for Kids
Introducing Riverlane’s Quantum Error Correction roadmap
The Quantum Computing Career Network
Loss Control-Based Key Distribution under Quantum Protection
Quantum Sensing for Medtech and Space
Portable atomic gravimeter shows promise in the field
Quantum Careers Initiative launched
A Short Introduction to Quantum Computing for Physicists
Quantum Economic Advantage: A New Practical Framework
From utility to algorithm discovery
Atom Computing and Micrososft accelerating scientific discovery
Artificial Intelligence for Quantum Computing
Stay informed, stay ahead. These are the stories shaping the quantum future – a future in which Africa is poised to play a leading role.
Our Quantum Lens 2024
Beyond the algorithms and equations, lies the vibrant energy of the people driving Africa's quantum revolution. This year, we've captured snapshots of groundbreaking moments, insightful dialogues, and the passionate faces behind the advancements.
This visual tapestry offers a glimpse into:
Leading minds in action: See African quantum leaders sharing their expertise on national and international stages.
Collaborative breakthroughs: Witness the dynamic interactions during key sessions and workshops across the continent.
The human connection: Experience the camaraderie and shared passion that fuels our growing quantum community.
These images are a testament to the dedication, innovation, and collaborative spirit that define Quantum in Africa. They tell a powerful story of progress and potential, capturing the essence of our journey towards a quantum future.
Your Lens on the Quantum World: Capture the Spark of 2025!
As the International Year of Quantum 2025 unfolds, we're building a visual story of our community's journey. Throughout this landmark year, when you witness a defining moment for quantum in Africa – be it the energy of a powerful presentation, the excitement of a collaborative breakthrough, or a spark of pure quantum inspiration – capture it!
We invite you to share your best photographs/video clips from 2025 for our special end-of-year newsletter, a vibrant retrospective celebrating the global impact of quantum. Let's visually amplify the impact we've made together and inspire even greater engagement in the years ahead.
Help us paint a compelling portrait of quantum in Africa in 2025. Share your photos/vids and be an integral part of this fitting celebration!
Submit your photos to collaborate@africaquantum.org
Made with the essence of Ubuntu by the AQC Team.
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Great job for this memo. Keeping fingers crossed for updates