We call this first issue of shares the Melonshare issue. We are asking you to take part in a melon planting programme across all of Uganda, from Kisoro in the West, Lamwo in the North, Mbale in the East and Luwero in the Centre. If you invest £1 (E1.15 or $1.60) in the planting process, you can earn money, because you will share in the profit made by selling the melons. Each £1 will plant five melon seeds. You invest only for 2012 and your return is dependent upon the productivity of the crop and the selling price we are able to achieve.
We will audit the melon investment process independently and declare the results in January 2013. Be aware, that we want to offer another share issue at the end of the year, so we want our first one to be a resounding success! In the meantime, you can keep track of how the project is going on this web-site and, if you have ideas on how we can improve the project during this year, you can post advice on our blog, or you can even come and see us in Uganda – though please give us notice!
We are looking to raise £100,000 before the end of December 2011, so that we can build the New Chrysalis School in January 2012. Planting will also start in January 2012. The share issue will be capped at £100,000 for our first issue.
In January 2013, you can decide on whether to reinvest in a new share issue, or recoup your money, according to the share value declared. You will not be able to recall your money before January 2013, unless we notify you otherwise.