Lifezone Metals, a modern metals company focused on cleaner and more responsible production and recycling, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security (JOGMEC) to support Japan’s efforts to secure cleaner metals for its battery industry.
The MoU centers on the Kabanga Nickel Project in Tanzania, which Lifezone Metals acquired in 2021. The Kabanga deposit is considered one of the world’s largest and highest-grade undeveloped nickel sulphide resources. Lifezone Metals aims to combine this project with its Hydromet Technology to produce LME-grade nickel, copper, and cobalt for global battery markets while helping Tanzania achieve full in-country value creation.
Lifezone Metals CEO Chris Showalter emphasized the significance of the project, stating that the Kabanga deposit is world-class and that JOGMEC’s involvement as a strategically aligned partner adds to the project’s potential. Showalter also highlighted other key collaborators, including BHP as the project development partner, Societe Generale as the lead financial advisor, the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation, and the Government of Tanzania. These partnerships reflect the collective intent to advance the Kabanga project for the benefit of all stakeholders.
The MoU includes an agreement for Lifezone Metals to work with JOGMEC to supply metals from the Kabanga project to Japan’s growing battery industry through Lifezone Metals’ marketing rights. Both organizations are committed to ensuring a sustainable and traceable supply chain, aligning with their shared goal of promoting responsible mining practices and supporting the global transition to clean energy.
JOGMEC will also consider providing financial support to Japanese companies involved in the project, potentially through a Japanese government funding program. This investment highlights the importance of the Kabanga Nickel Project in meeting Japan’s increasing demand for cleaner metals.
