Lifezone Metals has signed an MOU with the Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security (JOGMEC) for the supply of nickel for Japanese batteries.

The MOU is set to bolster JOGMEC's acquisition of cleaner metals from Lifezone's Kabanga Nickel Project in north-west Tanzania.

Known for being one of the world's largest and highest-grade undeveloped nickel sulphide deposits, the Kabanga project also boasts by-products copper and cobalt.

Located nearly 340km south-west of the Kabanga deposit, Kahama Refinery will utilise Lifezone’s Hydromet technology.

The project is expected to reduce emissions compared with conventional smelting methods.

Under the MOU, Lifezone will work with JOGMEC to ensure the supply of metals from Kabanga aligns with Japan's burgeoning battery market demands.

The partnership is in line with both organizations' commitment to responsible mining and the broader shift towards clean energy.

Lifezone Metals CEO Chris Showalter said: “Kabanga is a world-class, high-grade nickel deposit and we welcome the opportunity to bring on JOGMEC as a strategically aligned partner.

“With BHP as our project development partner, Société Générale as our lead financial advisor for the project financing process, the support of the US International Development Finance Corporation and the Government of Tanzania, and now strategic cooperation with JOGMEC – a Japanese Government independent administrative agency for energy and metals, we see a clear indication of intent to drive this globally significant project forward to the benefit of all partners and stakeholders.”

JOGMEC is considering extending financial support to Japanese companies through a governmental funding support programme.

Earlier this year, the Tanzanian Government awarded a licence to Lifezone Metals to operate a multi-metal processing facility for nickel, copper and cobalt at its Kabanga Nickel Project.