Diepsloot

In little more than a decade Diepsloot has transformed from a semi-rural expanse to a dense seething settlement of about 200 000 people. A post-apartheid creation lying to the north of Johannesburg Diepsloot is talked about as a place of fear vigilante justice xenophobic violence and a haven for criminals and undocumented foreigners. Respected journalist Anton Harber spent several months there meeting the people drinking in the taverns and probing the bitter local political battles. He patrolled with volunteer crime-fighters at night. He spoke to politicians church members and artists. He interviewed city officials asking them why so little progress was being made in developing Diepsloot. He investigated why the much-needed police station stands unfinished. Amidst the poverty violence and chaos he found a bustling place much loved by its inhabitants and an active economy with all the associated hustling and trading. He found people who when neglected by the state made their own solutions.