UK Africa Quantum AI Forum

Africa's financial and telecommunications infrastructure runs on encryption that has 5–7 years before it breaks. Zero African nations currently have a structured quantum engagement programme with the UK. The window to shape the terms of Africa's participation, rather than inherit standards set by others, is closing. On the 5th of November 2026 in London, the Africa Quantum Institute will bring senior African government, financial services, and telecommunications leaders into closed-door dialogue with UK quantum institutions, ambassadors, and investors. This UK-Africa Quantum AI forum will happen on the eve of the UK Quantum Showcase, so delegates maximise the entire week. The day is built to produce something, not just convene: sector-specific commitments from working groups, synthesised into a UK–Africa Quantum Readiness Charter, with a Steering Committee to carry it forward. This is invitation-only by design. The day will feature representation from a joint delegation of African Ambassadors to the UK, setting the diplomatic weight of the room. From there, discussion moves into sector dialogues on quantum-safe financial infrastructure and quantum-secured telecommunications, held under the Chatham House Rule to keep the conversation candid. Delegates then move into closed working groups, translating discussion into sector-specific commitments. The day closes by synthesising those findings into a UK–Africa Quantum Readiness Charter, with a Steering Committee formed to carry the work forward.