Solafune, Inc. (CEO: Ren Uechi) is pleased to announce that it will provide satellite data acquisition technology to the Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation (JOGMEC), an independent administrative agency overseen by the Agency for Natural Resources and Energy, a branch of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. This collaboration aims to conduct a nationwide analysis in the Republic of Zambia to obtain information contributing to the potential of surface resources.

Background of the Project

Mineral resources are essential across various sectors, from everyday items to cutting-edge technology, and they form the foundation of modern society's development. However, Japan lacks significant mineral resources and relies heavily on imports. This situation presents a major challenge, especially with the rapid increase in demand for minerals necessary for electric vehicles, semiconductors, and GPUs.

Recognizing the need for strategic national collaboration with resource-producing countries, former Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Nishimura, visited several Southern African nations in 2023, including Namibia, Angola, the DRC, Zambia, and Madagascar, to secure stable supplies of critical minerals [※1].

With this new partnership, Solafune aims to contribute to Japan's AI and automotive industries.

About JOGMEC

 The Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation (JOGMEC) is an independent administrative agency under the Agency for Natural Resources and Energy, which is a branch of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. JOGMEC engages in a variety of activities to ensure a stable supply of energy and metallic mineral resources. These activities include resource exploration, development, technological support, and environmental conservation. JOGMEC also promotes international cooperation and risk management, contributing to Japan’s resource diplomacy, resource security, and economic growth.

About Solafune

Solafune’s mission is to “Hack The Planet.” The company develops and provides satellite data analysis technologies to understand and analyze events occurring on Earth. Solafune operates a satellite data platform utilized in about 100 countries and regions worldwide, actively providing technology to Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

• Company Name: Solafune, Inc.

• URL: https://company.solafune.com

• Tokyo Office: Room10 1-16-3 Yokokawa, Sumida City, Tokyo

• Okinawa Office: 3-6-16 Uechi, Okinawa City, Okinawa

• CEO: Ren Uechi

• Business Activities: Satellite data analysis, software licensing, related services

Contact us

Solafune PR

E-mail: pr@solafune.com

[※1] JOGMEC Signed an agreement with African countries to secure critical minerals - Strengthening relationships with African countries through accompanying Minister NISIMURA on a visit to Southern African countries -