From one angle it looks like NC and from other angles like ASC... or even NZ (if you use your imagination).
In my opinion it's unlikely to be the NC of the Natal Carbineers because the uniform is wrong. This chap is wearing the heavy serge tunic that was worn in the European theatre.
The Natal Carbineers served in German South West Africa c. 1915 (where khaki drill and pre-war Colonial kit tended to be worn) but did not serve as a unit in Europe. The tunics of the prewar NC had distinctive scallopped pockets with a long middle point which this is not. Volunteers from NC served in Europe with the 2nd South African Infantry (2SAI) a composite battallion formed for overseas service and wore 2SAI badges.
I think British ASC is the more likely contender
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