
The Africa Quantum Consortium (AQC), a pan-African initiative, has officially launched as a platform for coordinating quantum science, education, innovation, and policy across the continent. Formally registered in South Africa, the organization aims to provide a shared foundation for quantum science and technology where prior efforts have been largely decentralized.
AQC’s work is organized around four strategic pillars: Unify, Clarify, Influence, and Fund. The “Unify” pillar focuses on building coordination across borders through events such as Quantum Roundtables. The “Clarify” pillar involves a forthcoming “State of Quantum in Africa” white paper to document standards and strategic direction. The “Influence” pillar aims to ensure Africa’s participation in global discussions, while the “Fund” pillar involves securing capital for an Africa Quantum Fund to invest in startups.
The consortium has established initiatives for talent development, including the AQC Academy and the Quantum Circle, a community for women and girls in quantum. Farai Mazhandu, Founder and Convenor of AQC, commented that the consortium was built as a coordination engine to support the quantum ecosystem. Dr. Taha Rouabah, a co-convenor, noted a focus on building research collaborations and commercialization pathways for a self-sustaining quantum economy.
The launch of the AQC is intended to provide a legal and structural foundation to coordinate work across borders, secure funding, and build long-term programs. This initiative’s goal is to turn Africa’s intellectual capital into economic value and to build a sovereign and sustainable quantum ecosystem that reflects African priorities.
Read more about the Africa Quantum Consortium on their official website here, on their LinkedIn company page here, and on the Eventbrite page for the Quantum Roundtable here.
August 9, 2025