The establishment, role and contribution of the South African National Civics Association (SANCO) in Soweto: a question of civic interest

Abstract

This dissertation attempts to provide a historical and conceptual exposition of the establishment, role and contribution of Sanco in Soweto. To further the conceptual argument the concept civic interest is introduced. In the context of Sanco Soweto's trajectory as a civic association, the concept civic interest is def"med and utilised as a tool of measurement. The concept has three aspects: individual interests, consensus and the common good. It is used to determine whether or not Sanco Soweto as a civic organisation promoted the interests of the people of Soweto, regardless of their social, economic, cultural and political standing. It was found that Sanco Soweto promoted the civic interest only in certain respects. Although useful projects were launched, their success remained minimal. Sanco Soweto represented certain social strata better than others. The Branch was closer to professional and semi-professional income earners occupying council houses than the mostly illiterate and poor shack-owners.