Lifezone Metals Limited (NYSE: LZM) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security (JOGMEC), a strategic partnership focused on providing Japan’s battery industry with cleaner, sustainably-sourced metals from the Kabanga Nickel Project. This collaboration aligns with JOGMEC’s mission to secure stable and cleaner metal supplies for Japanese industries.
The Kabanga Nickel Project is renowned as one of the largest high-grade nickel sulfide deposits worldwide, offering valuable byproducts, including copper and cobalt. Lifezone’s proprietary Hydromet technology, which significantly reduces carbon emissions compared to traditional smelting processes, will be applied to the project, aligning it with global demands for environmentally responsible mining practices.
Commitment to a Sustainable Future
Chris Showalter, CEO of Lifezone Metals, shared his enthusiasm for the collaboration: “The Kabanga Nickel Project is a truly world-class asset. With JOGMEC as a strategic partner, alongside BHP, our development partner, and Societe Generale, our lead financial advisor, we are well-positioned to meet the growing demand for responsibly sourced nickel. Our collaboration with JOGMEC, supported by the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation and the Government of Tanzania, further solidifies the project’s role in contributing to sustainable growth within the Japanese and global markets.”
This MOU underlines both Lifezone and JOGMEC’s dedication to supporting sustainable development in the mining sector while catering to the demand for ethically-sourced materials in the transition to clean energy solutions. Under the agreement, Lifezone will work with JOGMEC to ensure a secure and traceable supply of metals for Japan’s expanding battery sector, supporting a sustainable metal value chain.
Strengthening Japan’s Clean Energy Transition
Under the MOU, JOGMEC will evaluate financial support for Japanese companies engaged in the project, subject to its application within Japan’s Governmental funding support program. This potential investment highlights the Kabanga Nickel Project’s importance in meeting Japan’s cleaner energy requirements and the country’s industrial demand for sustainable metals.
“Having JOGMEC on board enhances our goal of advancing the Kabanga Nickel Project into a leading source of responsibly produced nickel for the global market,” Showalter added. “We are proud to partner with JOGMEC in providing cleaner nickel solutions that support Japan’s transition towards greener energy.”
Kabanga Nickel Project and Minerals Security Partnership
JOGMEC is an independent Japanese administrative agency dedicated to ensuring stable and affordable access to vital energy and mineral resources, fortifying Japan’s industrial base. Japan is also a member of the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), an international initiative to expedite the development of sustainable critical mineral supply chains. The MSP is composed of key global players, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, and the United States, who work collectively to provide targeted support for strategic mineral projects worldwide.
Lifezone Metals is proud to support the mission of the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP) and the MSP Finance Network, as we believe that sustainable resource management is critical for a greener future. The Kabanga Nickel Project, with its advanced Hydromet technology and commitment to reducing environmental impact, is recognised not only as a vital asset for clean energy transitions but also as a key contributor to enhancing global supply chains for responsibly sourced metals. This collaboration underscores our dedication to addressing the pressing need for sustainable materials that can power the electric vehicle revolution and support renewable energy initiatives worldwide.
