be done in this area as the recent rates, whilst much lower than in previous years, remain unacceptably high. It is thus engaged in an ongoing process of innovation and development, some of which is reflected in the following sections of the report. Figure 5: Maternal, infant and child mortality rates 2001-2012 Source: MICS 2005 and 2010 and DHS 2013 (for 2013 data) 7.2.3.1 Continental and regional initiatives 259. The GoSL has committed to attainment of MDGs 3 and 4: To reduce maternal mortality ratios by three quarters and the under-five mortality rate by two thirds by 2015. It is also a party to the Campaign for Accelerated Reduction in Maternal and Child Mortality in Africa Strategy (CARMMA) which was launched by the African Union Conference of Health Ministers in 2009. The realization of the MDGs and CARMMA objectives is supported by a number of high level initiatives and national policies, laws and programmes. 7.2.3.2 National policies, laws and programmes 260. The promotion of the health and well-being of mothers, infants and children is afforded the highest priority in Sierra Leone. The office of the First Lady leads a programme focussed on the reduction of maternal and child mortality. The First Lady champions the cause and drives the mobilisation of resources and advocacy to address the issue in especially under-serviced areas and areas marked by very high levels of morbidity and mortality. 261. The Ministry of Health and Sanitation (MoHS) launched the national Reproductive Newborn and Child Health Policy (2011) and Strategic Plan (2011-2015) with financial and technical support from UNICEF which identifies maternal and newborn care as a priority area. 262. The GoSL has developed a Basic Package of Essential Services encompassing comprehensive antenatal and post-natal health care and services for pregnant women, infants and young children which in terms of the FHCI, since 2010, is available free of charge until a child reaches the age of 5 years. 7. Health and Welfare  71