Japan and Namibia have entered into an agreement to jointly explore rare earth minerals.

 

This collaboration is part of Japan's larger strategy to establish supply chains for minerals like cobalt used in manufacturing electric vehicle batteries. 

The Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security will partner with Namibia's state-owned mining company Epangelo. Yasutoshi Nishimura, Japan's minister for economy, trade, and industry, is currently visiting countries rich in rare earth deposits, including Namibia, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, aiming to create an African supply chain for essential minerals.