Problem with chip in bank card

I opened an account at Absa North End. The service I received was really outstanding by the lady assisting me. Yesterday I used the card at retailers to buy items but there was a problem with the chip so I did not use my pin but it was swiped so I could pay. However at the last retailer my card was declined and it stated that the card was blocked. I went to Absa today to sort out the problem and the block was removed and the card was again activated. I went to a shop to purchase an item and the card was again declined. When I went back to the bank I was informed that the card was blocked again and it was again activated. I went and to another shop to try the card and again it was declined. I went bank to the bank and it was blocked and again activated. I then again tried the card but as it was declined again so I left it. I increased the daily limit I can withdraw but when I tried to withdraw money I am unable to do so. I phoned the lady at the branch and she then informed me that she contacted the support team to find out what is wrong. Apparently it is a country wide problem and I must keep on trying to see when the problem is solved which is unacceptable.