# The director of Lifeline Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu-Natal, Sinikiwe Biyela says nearly 600 cases of gender-based violence are reported monthly in the uMgungundlovu district in KwaZulu-Natal which has shed new light on the alleged abuse of young girls by so-called spiritual leaders. The report came out a week before 16 Days of activism for no violence against women and children campaign that kicks off on 25 November and runs until 10 December. These religious leaders are allegedly targeting young girls between the ages of 13 and 17. The number of cases are also increasing in Amajuba, Umzinyathi, Uthukela and Harry Gwala district.