In a 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-need police station stands unfinished.
Amidst the poverty, violence and chaos, he found a bustling place
much loved by its inhabitants, an active economy with all the
associated hustling and trading. He found people who, when neglected
by the state, made their own solutions. Most of all, I learned that
if you want to understand where this country is headed, you need to
listen to the people of Diepsloot. Hear what they are saying. Take
note of their hopes and aspirations. You might be surprised.'
Diepsloot is the first study of its kind that seeks to understand
change as it is lived on the ground, and not as it is talked about
in the media and corridors of power. Rich with detail and local
colour, it offers a nuanced examination of life as it is lived
despite the State with its half-completed police station and the ANC
with its internecine warfare.' - JACOB DLAMINI
