Is Every Dollar Coming from Abroad Really Investment?
When headlines say, “Tanzania attracts US$2 billion in foreign investment,” we need to ask: How much of that is true FDI that creates industries and jobs? How much is hot money that can leave tomorrow?
Every year, headlines announce that Tanzania has attracted “billions of dollars in foreign Investment.” It sounds impressive, almost like prosperity is guaranteed. But behind the numbers lies an important truth: not every dollar that enters our economy is truly an investment. The question is, is every dollar that comes from abroad truly an investment?
FDI vs. Hot Money: What’s the Difference?
Not all money that enters Tanzania counts as Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).
True FDI
When foreigners build something solid, like a cement factory in Mtwara (Dangote Cement), a farm estate in Iringa producing export crops, or a mining project in Geita that is creating long-term jobs. These projects remain in the country, employ local people, and typically last for decades.
Hot Money
When foreign capital comes in for a short-term gain, for example, investors buying Tanzanian Treasury bonds or speculate by buying on the shilling. It’s money that can leave as quickly as it came.
Why Does This Difference Matter for Tanzania?
Jobs and Skills
A factory gives Tanzanians employment and training, but hot money doesn’t create jobs; it only moves numbers in bank accounts.
Stability
FDI projects anchored in Tanzania; they can’t just vanish overnight. Hot money can run away if global markets shake, leaving our economy vulnerable.
Technology Transfer
With FDI, we get new machines, management styles, and global know-how while, Hot money brings none of this it’s just profit-chasing capital.
The Danger of Confusing the Two
When headlines say, “Tanzania attracts US$2 billion in foreign investment,” we need to ask:
How much of that is true FDI that creates industries and jobs?
How much is hot money that can leave tomorrow?
If we celebrate hot money the same way we celebrate factories, we risk fooling ourselves.
What Tanzania Should Focus On
Attract More True FDI
Offer clear policies, fast permits, and good infrastructure to investors building long-term projects.
Filter the Numbers
Government reports should separate FDI from portfolio inflows (hot money), so Tanzanians know the truth.
Support Local Businesses
Link FDI projects with Tanzanian SMEs (suppliers, contractors, service providers) so the benefits spread.
Not all dollars are created equal. A dollar that builds a cement plant in Mtwara is worth far more to Tanzania than a dollar that briefly chases bond yields. As we look ahead, the challenge is not just to attract foreign money, but to ensure it is the right kind of money, the kind that builds, employs, and lasts.