Fight Against Leprosy - 25 centesimo

On November 11, 1953, the Trust Territory of Somaliland (under Italian administration, AFIS) marked the expansion and modernization of the historic Alessandra Leprosarium (Lebbrosario dell'Isola Alessandra), situated along the Juba River in southern Somalia. Established in the early 20th century to provide isolated medical care, housing, and social support for individuals afflicted with Hansen’s disease (leprosy), the institution underwent significant clinical upgrades during the 1950s trusteeship period. The initiative reflected broader international public health efforts to introduce effective multi-drug treatments, combat transmission, and reduce the societal stigma surrounding the chronic condition across the Horn of Africa.

The issue combines regional geography with institutional humanitarian emblems to mark the inauguration date (11 NOVEMBRE 1953). The central vignette presents a landscape view of the Alessandra medical settlement and riverine acacia terrain along the Juba River. Flanking the landscape at the upper corners are two prominent heraldic shields: on the left, the regional coat of arms of the Trust Territory depicting a standing leopard, and on the right, the eight-pointed cross of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta (SMOM), honoring the religious and international humanitarian order’s crucial medical leadership, funding, and hospital administration in the fight against leprosy.