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INSTITUTIONALIZED CHILD CARE IN URBAN SOUTH AFRICA

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inferred that Nkokheli’s artistic interpretation may have beeen loosely based on actual<br />

experiences that were blended with Western conventions for how things should be drawn.<br />

Marc suggested that I pay a visit to a township where he had lived, Alexandra. It is one of<br />

the largest townships in Johannesburg, and one of its most famous as a former residence<br />

of Nelson Mandela. Marc and Xolani both enthusiastically recommended that I take a<br />

visit. Pastor Mike agreed that it would be an enlightening experience, however he asked a<br />

security guard at the center, Evan, to drive me through it without stopping. It should be<br />

noted that Pastor Mike and Evan were both South Africans of Indian heritage, who held<br />

different perceptions regarding the relative safety of the township compared to Marc and<br />

Xolani. As I drove through, I noted the chaotic and crowded environment. Narrow streets<br />

were bordered by shanty-style homes, often made from tin scraps or cinder block. I also<br />

noticed small areas of commerce, including a barber shop that consisted of a single chair.<br />

These areas were particularly congested with pedestrian traffic, including the goat that<br />

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