Business and Technology
S. Africa Factories Gaining
South African manufacturing activity expanded in December but business activity deteriorated further in the month due to persistent rotational power cuts, a survey showed on Friday.
The seasonally adjusted Absa Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) rose to 53.1 points in December from 52.6 points in November.
"While the headline number is positive, the underlying picture is more mixed. Most concerning was the business activity index which deteriorated further in December," Absa said in a statement.
South Africa's manufacturing sector bore the brunt of rotational power cuts last year - known locally as loadshedding - as state power utility Eskom struggled to keep lights on for long periods in Africa's most industrialised economy.
"Sustained and intense load-shedding during the last month of 2022 was likely a key drag on the sector," Absa said.
There is also a likelihood of global supply chain disruptions due to an uptick in COVID-19 cases in China in the near-term, it added.
See all News Updates of the Day
South Sudan in Focus: Juba road ban worries boda boda drivers, Kenyan deputy president faces impeachment, data helps improve public services
Africa News Tonight: Saied dominates in Tunisia election, China drives into South Africa auto market, Kenyan runner suspended over drug test
Africa News Tonight: Displaced communities at risk of mpox, Tunisia’s Saied shakes up cabinet, sun-powered tractor debuts in Malawi
Restaurant with Robot Services Causes Excitement in Nairobi
In Nairobi, a new restaurant is generating business and buzz – not just because of the food, but because of the staff. Robots serving dishes is the main attraction for diners who flock to the Robot Café. Juma Majanga reports from Nairobi, Kenya.