Solafune (CEO: Ren Uechi) is pleased to announce our partnership with the National Geological Survey of Congo (SGN-C), a public institution under the Ministry of Mines of the Democratic Republic of Congo in charge of basic geological research, as of July 18th, 2025.

This Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aims to integrate cutting-edge satellite data analysis technologies with local capacity building, providing Congolese geologists and data scientists with essential skills and expertise.

The initiative also prioritizes strengthening mineral governance by enhancing geological understanding and improving data accessibility. Minister of Mines Kizito Pakabomba reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transparent, innovation-led mining, in alignment with President Félix Tshisekedi’s national development goals.

Through this collaboration, the DRC seeks to establish itself as a leader in next-generation mineral exploration by combining domestic ambition with global expertise to unlock the nation’s vast geological potential.

Additionally, the partnership will foster cooperation in the fields of remote sensing, geographic information systems (GIS), and artificial intelligence, with a focus on geospatial applications including mineral exploration, environmental monitoring, climate resilience, agriculture, disaster management, and land-use planning.

The initiative also aims to provide data-driven insights that support sustainable development and environmental governance for DRC government agencies and regional stakeholders.

■ Background of the Initiative

Mineral resources are fundamental to modern society, playing an essential role in everything from daily necessities to advanced technologies. However, Japan faces a significant challenge due to its limited domestic mineral resources, relying heavily on imports. With rapidly growing demand for electric vehicles, semiconductors, GPUs, and other technologies, ensuring a stable supply of critical minerals has become a pressing issue.

Recognizing the need for strategic partnerships with resource-producing nations, former Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Yasutoshi Nishimura, visited several countries in Southern Africa in 2023—including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Namibia, Angola, Zambia, and Madagascar—to strengthen ties in support of securing critical minerals.

The DRC holds the world’s largest share of cobalt production, a resource essential for lithium-ion batteries and semiconductor manufacturing. Through this agreement, the partnership aims to contribute to Japan’s manufacturing strengths, the growth of emerging industries, and key themes related to economic security.

■ About Solafune

Solafune is a start-up company that develops and provides satellite data analysis technology with the mission of "Hack The Planet. Our satellite data platform "Solafune" is used in approximately 120 countries and regions around the world, and we are actively providing our technology to countries in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and other parts of the world.

Company name: Solafune Inc.

URL: https://company.solafune.com

Tokyo Office: Marunouchi Building 28F, 2-4-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo, 100-6390, Japan

CEO: Ren Uechi

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

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■ Contact us

Solafune PR

E-mail: pr@solafune.com