Japan considering Namibia for rare earth mineral deal

Niël Terblanché The Japanese government plans to enter into an agreement with state-owned entity, Epangelo Mining Company to strengthen the supply chain for rare earth and other key minerals. Namibia is one of three African countries selected by the Japanese government as potential suppliers of lithium and other rare earth minerals used in the production of high-capacity batteries. Aside from Namibia, Japan intends to extend cooperative exploration for rare earth minerals with state-owned mining businesses in Zambia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. As Namibia is rich in zinc, copper, and other resources, the supply chain remains underdeveloped, despite…