Bram Jacobs began his journey in Uganda in 2017 at the age of 28, working as a Junior Expert for Broederlijk Delen in Lira. Over two years, he focused on agroecological farming, supporting local partner organizations and small-scale farmers to experiment with sustainable agricultural methods. Bram observed that Ugandan farmers possess deep practical knowledge and that agroecology is a necessity rather than a luxury, as working with nature is essential for survival.
He noticed parallels between the challenges faced by farmers in Uganda and those in Belgium. While Belgian farmers struggle under pressures from the agro-industry, Ugandan farmers face dependency on rainfall, poor infrastructure, and limited market access. In both contexts, small-scale farmers find it difficult to make a dignified living from their work, persisting mainly due to a lack of alternatives.
Bram quickly adapted to life in Lira, appreciating the strong sense of community and social interaction. Early experiences, like being guided to the market by a stranger for 20 minutes, reflected the generosity and connectedness of the local population. Over time, he became integrated into the social fabric of the city, attending community events and forming close relationships with Ugandan colleagues. His personal life also flourished when he met his future wife, Stella, at a festival in Jinja. Together, they now have three children and live in Kampala.
Through his work, Bram also learned the importance of understanding gender dynamics in development programs. While initiatives often focused on empowering women, unintended consequences sometimes emerged when men felt excluded, leading to household tensions. Broederlijk Delen adapted its approach, working with entire households so men and women collaborate as partners in managing their farms and family plans.
After his tenure as a Junior Expert, Bram continued as an Agroecology Adviser and eventually became the Country Representative for Broederlijk Delen in Uganda. This new role expanded his responsibilities beyond agriculture to overseeing budgets, human resources, government relations, and embassy contacts. Bram describes his position as a bridge between farmers and policymakers, translating practical realities into actionable insights for decision-makers.
Having spent nearly a decade in Uganda, Bram feels a deep connection to the country while maintaining his Belgian perspective. His children are growing up immersed in both cultures, learning multiple languages and developing a global outlook. Bram emphasizes that international cooperation is a gradual process, but patient relationship-building, support for families, and sustainable local initiatives can create meaningful change. His experiences in Lira continue to shape his approach to development and drive his commitment to improving the livelihoods of small-scale farmers.
