QUANTUM computing may soon become humanity’s next great technological leap, or its most significant vulnerability. As Artificial Intelligence (AI) transforms industries worldwide and becomes an integral part of Zimbabwe’s digital landscape, a quieter but seismic shift is gathering force: quantum computing. When these two forces converge, the impact could redefine technology, economies, and security.AI’s explosive growth — and limitsOver the past five years, AI has moved from theory to everyday utility. Globally, AI powers everything from autonomous vehicles and chatbots to logistics and translation tools. Yet, AI’s progress is constrained by classical computing.Training large models such as GPT-4 or image generators that include Midjourney demands massive datasets, energy, and advanced hardware. Even the best supercomputers, limited by binary architecture, struggle to keep up. Quantum computing could shatter these limits, supercharging AI’s capabilities — but only if Zimbabwe prepares now.Quantum + AI: A new powerhouseUnlike classical computers, which use binary bits (0s and 1s), quantum computers use qubits that can exist in multiple states simultaneously, thanks to quantum principles such as super position and entanglement. This enables exponentially faster and more complex computations. When applied to AI, quantum computing could:Accelerate machine learning by optimising solutions much faster than classical methods.Enable more efficient AI model training, requiring less data and energy.Enhance pattern recognition for applications such as fraud detection, climate modelling, and optimising Zimbabwe’s agricultural supply chains.Unlock new AI models that are currently computationally infeasible. For Zimbabwe and Africa, this is a double-edged sword: quantum-AI could drive innovation in agriculture, healthcare, and education, but without preparation, it risks widening the tech gap with global powers.The Quantum arms race beginsTech giants such as Google, IBM, and Amazon are racing to build practical quantum computers. Google’s Sycamore processor achieved “quantum supremacy” in 2019, solving a problem in 200 seconds that would take a supercomputer thousands of years. IBM’s latest roadmap features a 1 000+ qubit chip, and China is advancing rapidly through state-sponsored programmes.AI labs such as OpenAI and DeepMind are exploring quantum processors to train models faster and more efficiently. Over the next five to 15 years, this Quantum-AI convergence could redefine military, economic, and scientific leadership. Zimbabwe must position itself to avoid being side-lined.The security threat“Harvest Now, Decrypt Later” Quantum computing’s power poses a severe risk: it could break current encryption systems. Today’s digital locks securing bank accounts, WhatsApp messages, and Zimbabwe’s e-government platforms — rely on mathematical problems that classical computers struggle to solve. A mature quantum computer could crack these in minutes.The “Harvest now, decrypt later” threat is real: hackers could collect encrypted data today and decrypt it once quantum systems mature, exposing Zimbabwe’s digital finance and mobile health systems. The nation, which has embraced digital finance and e-government could find itself dangerously exposed if the issue of quantum security is not addressed.What can Zimbabwe do?Zimbabwe is not helpless, but action is urgent. With limited resources, the country must prioritise strategic, cost-effective steps to prepare for the quantum — AI era.Zimbabwean universities and AI developers should embed quantum computing awareness into their development strategies. Zimbabwean universities and AI professionals are encouraged to adopt this mindset. For example, leveraging open-source quantum platforms such as IBM’s Qiskit can foster quantum skills development without substantial financial outlay.Post-quantum standardsWith the US National Institute of Standards and Technology releasing draft quantum-safe encryption standards in 2024, it is crucial for Zimbabwe’s banks, telecommunications providers, and government agencies to align with these protocols. Begin by piloting quantum-resistant algorithms in essential sectors, such as mobile money, to safeguard digital infrastructure against future quantum threats.Strengthen STEM education: Polytechnics and universities must embed quantum theory, AI, and ethics into the curricula. Low-cost online platforms (Coursera, edX) offer quantum computing courses to up-skill students and professionals. By 2030, Zimbabwe needs a generation of quantum-literate thinkers, not just coders.Collaborate across Africa: Join the African Quantum Technologies Initiative (AQTI) which fosters research and knowledge-sharing. Partner with institutions such as South Africa’s NITheCS or Kenya’s Quantum Leap Lab for joint training programmes and workshops. Zimbabwe could propose a regional quantum-AI hackathon to build capacity and share resources.The African opportunityQuantum computing could widen the global tech divide or, with foresight, empower African innovation. Zimbabwe’s AI community is already vibrant with talent and can lead in sectors such as precision agriculture, medical diagnostics, and education.For instance, quantum-enhanced AI could optimise irrigation for smallholder farmers or improve disease prediction in rural clinics.But preparation must start now. Quantum computing may seem distant, but AI’s rapid rise shows how quickly technology can reshape life.By 2035, practical quantum systems could be mainstream, and Zimbabwe must not be caught unprepared.Final wordQuantum computing is not just a technological leap; it is a call-to-action. Zimbabwe must embrace its fusion with AI, secure its digital future, and invest in education and partnerships.With strategic steps, leveraging open source tools, adopting quantum safe encryption, and collaborating regionally, we can turn a quantum’s potential into opportunity, not vulnerability. The time to act is now, before the quantum wave arrives.Just as AI reshaped daily life in just a few years, Quantum Computing will follow, only faster.Let us not be caught by surprise again.Bangure is an aviation enthusiast and technology analyst contributing to the Zimbabwe Independent. The aviators are retired Zimbabwe airmen, who provided their analysis voluntarily for educational purposes.Quantum computing is not just a technological leap; it is a call-to-action. Zimbabwe must embrace its fusion with AI, secure its digital future, and invest in education and partnerships.With strategic steps, leveraging open source tools, adopting quantum safe encryption, and collaborating regionally, we can turn a quantum’s potential into opportunity, not vulnerability. The time to act is now, before the quantum wave arrives.Just as AI reshaped daily life in just a few years, Quantum Computing will follow, only faster.Let us not be caught by surprise again.Bangure is an aviation enthusiast and technology analyst contributing to the Zimbabwe Independent. The aviators are retired Zimbabwe airmen, who provided their analysis voluntarily for educational purposes.
