The CEO of Global Quantum Intelligence LLM, André M. König, has said that quantum computing is not just another innovation—it’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reshape humanity.
This was disclosed by Konig during a panel session at a recent DeepTech Summit held at the University Mohammed VI Polytechnic in Morocco.
Konig argues that while other technologies like artificial intelligence are transformative, they are rooted in classical physics and offer only incremental change.
“What I think I want to tell you about quantum computing is that it is different. It’s an opportunity, and I don’t think that very many people understand it.
“Fire is a technology, right? the wheel, electricity, the internet, and then you have incremental changes in between.
“Artificial intelligence is an incremental change. It is classical technology rooted in our classical understanding of reality…, but it’s not a change.
“Quantum is different,” he said.
Drawing from his early experience with AI startups, Kignod acknowledged the transformative potential of artificial intelligence but cautioned that the race for dominance in the field is largely over.
“You’re not going to catch up with Elon Musk or Sam Altman on AI. You don’t stand a chance,” he told the audience.
“So what you have to do is something new, something different—and that is what quantum is.”
Kignod emphasized the distinct nature of quantum technologies, which are based on principles such as entanglement and superposition.
While today’s technologies may appear incremental—faster, cheaper, more efficient, he believes a breakthrough is imminent.
“If we make it work, we will reach a point where we can do something we couldn’t even imagine before. That is the real quantumness. That is the opportunity,” he said.
Rejecting the idea of a flashy “iPhone moment” for quantum computing, Kignod urged policymakers and industry leaders to treat it as a national strategic priority—comparable to developing a nuclear reactor—not just another commercial product.
“This is not a product play. It’s a large-scale system technology,” he stated.
He urged bold investment from African nations, emphasizing the urgency of early action.
“It’s still early, and it’s still affordable,” he said. “Anyone in Morocco, in Africa, can lead in quantum—if they’re willing to take the risk.”
The DeepTech Adviser at OST Quantum Delta NL, Kate Hach, explained the unique challenge of quantum founders who must simultaneously advance complex scientific research and build viable businesses.
Hach underscores the central paradox of quantum entrepreneurship.
She pointed out the challenge quantum startups face in securing funding well before the market for their products is fully developed.
She added most founders in quantum space are scientists.
“All of them are scientists,” she emphasized. “And that’s something we need to address: how do you bridge the gap between science and entrepreneurship?”
Hach emphasized that quantum startups require more than just groundbreaking science—they must also possess strong business skills, the flexibility to adapt to change, and a clear long-term vision to succeed.
“You’re not going to get an MBA student to follow that route for the next 15 years,” she noted. “You need to grow quantum entrepreneurs—people who are amazing scientists and business leaders.”
She noted that institutions like UM6P are starting to invest in the future of quantum computing, recognizing it not merely as a scientific breakthrough but as a transformative, generational opportunity.
“UM6P sees this as a future technology they need to invest in,” Hack said. “And what do they invest in? People.”
Africa’s investment in quantum computing is pivotal for its technological and economic future.
The continent’s commitment to this field cannot be overstated, as quantum computing promises transformative advancements in areas like cryptography, healthcare, and artificial intelligence.
With global quantum readiness timelines spanning five years to a generation, African nations must act swiftly to avoid falling behind.
