Dear Friends, Family, and Business Associates,

I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to share with you all a profound experience that has touched me deeply both spiritually and personally.

The Coats Agri Aloe team (Shannon Coats, John Rousseau, and myself) have just returned from an incredible visit to Uganda. We were there to introduce our agricultural aloe vera product, GroAloe, and explore its potential to improve organic farming in the region. From the moment we landed at Entebbe airport, we were welcomed by very hospitable government assistance, that ensured that our arrival and customs processing went smoothly, which it did. Porters took our bags to waiting vehicles, where we met with some new friends who took us into the heart of the city to get us checked in at the beautiful Kampala Serena Hotel, where we stayed.

Our journey began with a series of meticulously planned meetings in Kampala. The local team had done an exceptional job preparing everything in advance, and on our first day we were privileged to meet some of the country’s top officials, including the Minister of Agriculture, the Minister of Finance, the Head of Standards, one of the countries top agronomist, and prominent businessmen. All were enthusiastic about the potential benefits of GroAloe for Uganda’s agricultural sector.

One of the most memorable parts of our trip was attending the 20th Coronation Anniversary Celebration of His Royal Highness Apollo Isansa Sansa Kabumbuli II in Kooki. It was a five-hour drive, but the experience was worth every minute. We were treated like dignitaries, traveling in the King’s vehicles with an armed police escort through the bustling streets of Kampala. The traffic in Uganda is unlike anything I’ve ever seen, and having a police escort was a unique adventure in itself.

At the coronation ceremony, we were seated with the country’s Kings, military leaders, dignitaries, and top politicians. I had the honor of presenting a gift to His Royal Highness – an original oil painting of a Texas longhorn, beautifully framed with a plaque commemorating his 20th coronation anniversary. The King stood up from his throne to greet me personally, a moment I will never forget.

After the ceremony, we made the drive back to Kampala, stopping briefly at the Equator for a quick photo opportunity. The following day, we were treated to an experience that words can hardly describe – visiting a lion sanctuary. We got to hold and play with lion cubs, interact with young juvenile lions, and even meet the magnificent adult lions up close. It was an awe-inspiring experience that connected me deeply with the beauty and power of nature.

Throughout our stay, we formed new relationships and bonds with the people of Uganda. Their kindness, warmth, and hospitality left a lasting impression on me. This journey was not just about business; it was a profound experience that touched my soul and renewed my appreciation for the simple joys of life.

We have exciting plans to return to Uganda soon. Our goal is to get into the dirt, literally and figuratively, to help grow this opportunity and make a positive impact on the local farming communities. This trip was a significant step in honoring the legacy of Bill Coats and introducing the world to agricultural aloe vera.

I am eternally grateful for this experience and the new friendships we have forged. It was a journey that reminded me of the importance of connection, community, the shared goal of creating a better future, and above all, stewardship.

Thank you for letting me share this with you. I look forward to keeping you updated on our progress and the exciting developments to come.

Warm regards,

Ross Garrity

Chairman and CEO, Coats Agri Aloe