Stakeholders explore quantum policy priorities for Ghana and Africa ahead of AoCQ

An online pre-conference on data-driven analysis of national quantum strategies has been held ahead of the African International Conference on Quantum Computing and Simulation (AoCIQ) 2026.

The event brought together national stakeholders to examine how data-driven approaches are shaping quantum strategy development globally and their implications for Ghana and Africa.

Delivering the keynote address, Mr. Simon Goorney, Head of Operations and Strategy at the European Quantum Readiness Center (EQRC), outlined findings from the centre’s analysis of national quantum strategies and noted that Ghana was pursuing similar initiatives.

Mr. Goorney predicted that quantum technology would soon become widespread.

“Quantum is going to be everywhere and very soon. This year has been the international year of quantum and it’s already received media attention,” he said.

He said the analysis focused on identifying the main topics, strategies and objectives outlined in national quantum plans.

“We want to understand what are the main topics in these documents? What do the governments talk about? What are their strategies? What do they want us to develop in quantum, and what do they say about it?” he said.

He also highlighted recurring themes across national strategies, including governance, workforce development and equitable access to hardware and resources.

“It’s the governance, making sure we have a coherent ecosystem, equitable access to things like hardware and parts, and ensuring the workforce has the necessary skills,” he said.

Mr. Goorney also noted that the European Union plans to present a quantum act to the European Parliament in 2026.

“The EU is planning to do this as well, so next year there will be a quantum act going to the European Parliament,” he said.

He further emphasised the importance of communicating quantum’s potential clearly and responsibly.

“When the quantum act goes to the EU Parliament, it is going to get a lot of media attention, so we want to make sure we have a good message about what quantum can do for us, without overselling or underselling it,” he said.