PICS: Sardine run throws financial lifeline to jobless youth
Unemployed youth in KwaZulu-Natal say the sardine run is more than a spectacle and has become a crucial source of income.
The annual event got underway last weekend, with a frenzy that took place on Saturday morning on the south coast.
Ndumisa Khawula is a local from Umkomaas who controls the nets.
"The money is really good. It helps because we are currently unemployed, but through this, we are able to feed our children and our families."
Andile Gcobo says the sardine run has become a lifeline for him.
READ: South coast fisherfolk ready for sardine run
" My job involves pushing the boats and pulling the nets. The amount of money that I get here helps because I normally stay at home the whole day, and when I'm called here, I get to make money and also avoid doing wrong things because I have a lot of time on my hands."
While Umkomaas Beach is where most of the action happened on Friday, the silver shoal moved to the Warner Beach area on Saturday.
Angler News SA's Vinesh Soogreem says over 350 crates have already been filled with sardines.
"If you want sardine action, it's the weekend. Make your way down here. The fish are here, the anglers are here, there is activities in the water. This is a place to be. This is what the Sardine Route 2025 is about."
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