Looking to grow your money without locking it away for years? Short-term investments are perfect for African professionals, entrepreneurs, and savers looking to preserve or grow wealth within a 1–3 year timeframe. Whether you’re saving for school fees, capital for a business, or a personal project, here are 10 of the best short-term investment options to consider across Africa.

In many African countries, mobile money platforms like M-Pesa (Kenya), MTN MoMo (Ghana, Nigeria, Uganda), and Airtel Money offer high-interest savings products directly from your phone.

Perfect for those who want simple, flexible savings on the go.

African banks offer fixed deposit accounts that lock your money in for periods ranging from 30 days to 12 months, with guaranteed interest.

Tip: Shop around different banks or fintechs to get the highest fixed deposit rate.

Many African governments issue short-term debt instruments (like T-Bills) through central banks. These are accessible in Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, South Africa, and others.

Purchase through banks or investment platforms authorized by your country’s central bank.

Apps like Cowrywise and PiggyVest (Nigeria), Ndovu (Kenya), and Chumz (East Africa) allow users to invest in mutual funds and savings products with small amounts.

These platforms make investing accessible to first-timers and low-income earners.

Agritech startups like ThriveAgric, FarmCrowdy, and E-Farms allow you to invest in agricultural projects and share in the profits at harvest.

Due diligence is key—stick to verified, regulated platforms.

Known by different names (chamas, tontines, ajo, stokvels), these community savings groups allow members to contribute and borrow on rotating terms.

Great for community-based investing with minimal bureaucracy.

In cities like Lagos, Nairobi, Johannesburg, and Accra, investing in quick property renovations or Airbnb-style rentals can generate returns in under a year.

Risk: Requires upfront capital and market knowledge.

With many African currencies facing inflation or devaluation, holding funds in USD, EUR, or GBP through domiciliary accounts or fintech wallets (e.g., Chipper Cash, Eversend) is a smart short-term hedge.

Ensure the platform is licensed and allows easy conversion.

Available across banks and investment firms in countries like Kenya, Ghana, South Africa, and Nigeria, money market funds are short-term mutual funds that offer higher returns than savings accounts with low risk.

Check for funds with strong historical returns and low management fees.

Short-term buying and reselling of goods—such as electronics, clothes, or food items—can yield profits within weeks or months.

Best for entrepreneurial minds willing to manage their own hustle.

Before choosing where to put your money, consider:

It’s smart to diversify. You might keep some cash in mobile savings, some in a government T-Bill, and test a small amount in a micro-investment platform or short-term hustle.

In Africa, short-term investing is about creativity, caution, and adaptability. With the right mix of tools—from fintech to traditional savings and local opportunities—you can grow your money while keeping it flexible. Stay informed, invest wisely, and don’t leave your money idle.