From Creamer Media in Johannesburg, this is the Real Economy Report.

South Africa’s Vaal University of Technology is helping to bring 3D printers to schools and rural communities around the country. Joanne Taylor has the story.

Vaal University of Technology Prof Deon de Beer

Shannon de Ryhove:
Industrial equipment company Atlas Copco recently launched its new demo truck, which will enable the company to showcase its equipment range, as well as provide increased service to the construction industry. Nomvelo Buthelezi has the story.

Nomvelo Buthelezi:
Atlas Copco’s construction tools division business line manager Neville Stewart tells Engineering News the purpose of having a demo truck.

Atlas Copco construction tools division business line manager Neville Stewart

Nomvelo Buthelezi:
Stewart says there are various tools that will be showcased at any different time to highlight the valuable contribution their products can make to businesses.

Neville Stewart

Nomvelo Buthelezi:
He goes on to say that there are a number of existing products that have been upgraded and added to the demo truck.

Neville Stewart

Nomvelo Buthelezi:
The company will officially launch the demo truck programme at the beginning of January 2013.

Shannon de Ryhove:
Other news making headlines this week: Economic fallout from the ongoing mining strikes is likely to haunt South African manufacturers into 2013.

The wave of unprotected mining strikes, which finally appear to be ending, are likely to remain a drag on South Africa’s already embattled manufacturing sector for at least the coming quarter and possibly beyond, the Manufacturing Circle has warned.

Pan-African Research and Investment Services economist Dr Iraj Abedian

That’s Creamer Media’s Real Economy Report. Join us again next week for more news and insight into South Africa’s real economy.