Five African Projects Leading the Quantum Revolution

Quantum technology is no longer the exclusive preserve of the world’s wealthiest nations. As we highlighted in our recent feature "Quantum Leap: How Emerging Markets Are Shaping the Future of Quantum Computing", Africa is making bold moves to establish itself in the quantum era. Across the continent, researchers and institutions are developing quantum communication networks, pioneering computing innovations, and preparing the next generation of quantum leaders.

From groundbreaking quantum satellite links to the educators forming young African minds, here are five standout quantum projects shaping Africa’s future.

South Africa–China 12,900 km Ultra-Secure Quantum Satellite Link

Stellenbosch University (South Africa) & University of Science and Technology of China

How It Uses Quantum Technology: Quantum Key Distribution (QKD): This project utilises the quantum properties of single photons to generate cryptographic keys, ensuring unbreakable encryption, even against future quantum computers.

Project Overview: In a groundbreaking collaboration, Stellenbosch University and the University of Science and Technology of China established a 12,900 km ultra-secure quantum communication link via satellite—the longest of its kind globally. Utilizing the Jinan-1 microsatellite, the project successfully transmitted quantum keys between China and South Africa, marking the first operational quantum satellite link in the Southern Hemisphere.

Project Impact: This achievement positions South Africa as a significant player in global quantum communications. It supports the development of the Stellenbosch Centre for Quantum Science and Technology, fostering advancements in quantum computing, sensing, and communication across Africa. The project exemplifies how quantum principles can address real-world challenges, such as secure intercontinental data transfer for governments and enterprises.

Wits University: Laser-Based Quantum Computing Breakthrough

WitsQ Quantum Initiative – University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)

How It Uses Quantum Technology: Quantum Computing with Light: Wits researchers built a low-cost quantum computing prototype using laser beams and digital displays, processing information at the speed of light rather than through binary circuits.

Project Overview: The WitsQ Quantum Initiative is a comprehensive effort by Wits University to position South Africa as a leader in quantum science. Within this broader initiative, researchers from the university's Structured Light Lab achieved a major breakthrough: developing a novel quantum computing system that processes complex operations using laser beams and simple optical components.

Their prototype successfully demonstrated the Deutsch-Jozsa algorithm, processing 16 distinct levels of information simultaneously — a dramatic leap beyond binary computing. Future developments could scale this capability into the millions.

Project Impact: This breakthrough paves the way for accessible quantum computing, particularly in regions with limited access to ultra-expensive tech infrastructure. Supported by WitsQ and the South African Quantum Technology Initiative (SA QuTI), the project highlights South Africa’s growing capacity not just to participate, but to lead in the global quantum race.

South African Quantum Technology Initiative (SA QuTI)

National Collaboration Among South African Universities and Institutions

How It Uses Quantum Technology: Coordinated Innovation: SA QuTI unites universities, researchers, and companies to drive breakthroughs across quantum computing, communication, sensing, and education — all aimed at building practical solutions for South Africa's economic and technological future.

Project Overview: The South African Quantum Technology Initiative (SA QuTI) is a bold national effort to make South Africa a leader in the quantum revolution. Rather than focusing on one single project, SA QuTI coordinates a full ecosystem of research, technology development, and education across multiple fields of quantum science. Its goal is simple but ambitious: to transform the promise of quantum technology into real-world tools that improve lives and create new industries.

In quantum computing, SA QuTI researchers are working on new kinds of algorithms designed to tackle challenges like logistics, finance, and materials design — problems that even today's best supercomputers struggle to solve. These algorithms could offer faster, cheaper solutions for industries critical to South Africa’s economy.

In quantum communication, projects include building educational demonstrators for schools that let students experiment with quantum cryptography firsthand, as well as pushing the limits of secure data transmission across fiber networks. Researchers are advancing techniques like quantum key distribution (QKD), which could one day protect South Africa’s government, banks, and businesses from cyber threats that even future quantum computers can't crack.

In quantum sensing and imaging, SA QuTI is developing cutting-edge technologies that can detect environmental changes with extraordinary precision — innovations that could transform healthcare, space exploration, military defense, and even agriculture. One project uses entangled photons to create next-generation imaging systems, while another is focused on building single-photon biosensors that can spot disease at earlier stages than conventional technologies allow.

Project Impact: What makes SA QuTI truly exciting is its focus on accessible innovation. South African researchers are working with everyday technologies — like lasers, fibers, and affordable optics — rather than relying on billion-dollar quantum superlabs. This opens the door for real-world deployment: in schools, hospitals, airports, and industries where quantum tools can make a difference.

By supporting educational programs and demonstrators, SA QuTI is also tackling the urgent need for human talent. The initiative recognizes that South Africa will need thousands of quantum-trained engineers, scientists, and technicians to fully participate in the global quantum economy. Through school outreach, university programs, and open-access tools, SA QuTI aims to build the largest pipeline of quantum talent in Africa.

Ultimately, SA QuTI is not just about competing on the world stage — it’s about using quantum innovation to solve South Africa’s most pressing challenges, from cybersecurity to healthcare, and building a homegrown technology sector that can lead in the 21st century.

Building Africa’s Quantum Workforce

OneQuantum Africa

How It Uses Quantum Technology: Skills Development and Community Building: OneQuantum Africa is not building quantum devices directly — it's building something even more crucial: the people who will power Africa’s quantum future.

Project Overview: Founded by quantum advocate Dorcas Attuabea Addo, OneQuantum Africa is addressing a major challenge in Africa’s scientific landscape: the urgent shortage of trained quantum engineers, scientists, and innovators. While global investment in quantum technology is surging, many African countries risk being left behind — not due to lack of talent, but due to lack of opportunity. OneQuantum Africa is determined to change that.

Through mentorship programs, online webinars, and networking events, the organization connects students and young professionals across the continent with international quantum experts and research opportunities. Its flagship initiative is the Pan-African Quantum Community, which creates a collaborative space where aspiring researchers can learn, share ideas, and build professional networks.

"Our mission is to make quantum accessible and inclusive," says Dorcas Attuabea Addo. "We believe Africa has brilliant minds that just need access to the right resources and support."

Project Impact: The need for this initiative is immense. Globally, the quantum technology sector is projected to require over one million skilled workers within the next decade. Yet currently, Africa has only a handful of programs offering advanced training in quantum fields. Without intervention, the continent risks missing out on a technology sector that could reshape industries from finance to healthcare.

OneQuantum Africa is helping close this gap by making the quantum world less intimidating and more welcoming. Their focus on community building ensures that young Africans are not isolated in their ambitions. Instead, they are part of a growing movement determined to place Africa at the heart of the global quantum economy.

By fostering leadership and collaboration early, OneQuantum Africa is ensuring that when the quantum revolution fully arrives, Africa will not just be a consumer — it will be a creator.