:: SEBOKENG ::

Background

Sebokeng is the largest of the six townships in Vaal Triangle, was established in 1965, when 18772 housing units were erected there. Situated beyond Evaton on the Johannesburg / Vereeniging road. Between 1973 and 1983, the township, like other residential area in the Vaal Triangle, was controlled by the then Oranje - Vaal Administration Board. Since its inception, Sebokeng was the administrative headquarters for six township which make the Lokoa municipal authority, which was instituted early, 1984



Political Development

The increase of the rent and services without wishes of the residents, led to protest and major demonstration where lives were lost. Homes and businesses belonging to councilors, particulary in Sebokeng and Sharpville. were gutted down. Community and youth groups who were prominent among the civic associations and youth congresses, called upon residents to refuse to pay the increased rentals and the support for the boycott was overwhelming. Organizations involved included the Vaal Civic Association, the Sebokeng Civic Association, the Vaal Students Congress and Azanian Youth Organisation. Some owed the allegiance to the United Democratic Front and others to the black consciousness movement.

Tourism

Despite the violence that affected this community in the late eighties, the place has huge potential for tourism attractions. Tourist could visit Christopher Nengelembe Memorial Park in Zone 7. This memorial park served as remind to the community about their fallen comrades. Christopher Nengelembe was a key activist that was wanted by the security police. This park has potential once it has been declared a heritage sites in the near future.


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