African private sector shows mixed economic performance in September

Various African economies showed divergent private sector performance in September 2026, according to recent Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) data.

In Kenya, the Stanbic Bank PMI rose to 51.3, signaling a return to growth driven by customer demand and improved cash flows, though businesses continue to face high fuel and transport costs. Similarly, Uganda’s private sector expanded with a PMI of 53.0, supported by resilient demand despite rising operating and logistics costs. Ghana also saw momentum, with its PMI rising to 51.3 as new orders and employment strengthened.

Conversely, South Africa’s private sector contracted, with the PMI falling to 49.0 due to weak demand and rising fuel expenses. Mozambique reported a marginal expansion with a PMI of 50.2; while business confidence reached a nine-year high, actual output and employment declined due to client financial difficulties and trade slowdowns.