ABOUT US
MEET JACOB
A LIFE OF PURPOSE
Jacob was more than a namesake for our Foundation - he was its heart and inspiration.
An educated theologian, Jacob studied in Denmark and Sweden, earning advanced degrees and the chance at a comfortable life overseas. But driven by a deep sense of duty, he chose to return to Zambia to serve his people. He didn’t seek wealth or recognition - only to uplift others, especially the most vulnerable.
FROM PERSONAL LOSS TO LIFELONG MISSION
The orphanage began with personal tragedy. Jacob and his wife Violet each lost three siblings due to sickness within a short time, leaving 20 children orphaned. Though various relatives took the children in, Jacob felt a profound responsibility to ensure their safety, stability, and education. That quiet commitment sparked a lifelog mission to care for children who had no one else.
BUILDING HEALTHCARE FROM HEARTBREAK
Jacob’s motivation to establish a medical centre in Chibolya stemmed from personal and harrowing experiences. Chibolya was known to be a dangerous place. During Jacob’s first and second attempt at trying to visit one of his sisters who lived in Chibolya, he was beaten up both times. On his third visit, he encountered a woman in severe medical distress. Jacob convinced a nearby man to lend him his wheelbarrow - a significant act of trust in their community - akin to lending someone a valuable possession like a luxury car. Jacob wheeled the woman seven miles to the nearest medical centre, only to find a long queue. Despite his plea for immediate help, they were told to wait. Tragically, the woman started convulsing, and although the nurses eventually intervened, it was too late - she died in Jacob’s arms.
This heart-wrenching experience solidified Jacob’s resolve to establish a medical centre in Chibolya. Despite the council’s initial reluctance, Jacob lobbied the government, which ultimately compelled the council to provide land for the centre. Jacob then utilised local labour to build the centre from the ground up.
HIS LEGACY LIVES ON
In 2021, Jacob tragically passed away from COVID-19. His loss was felt deeply - not just by his family and friends, but by the hundreds of children he provided for as well as the community he lifted with his bare hands.
Jacob’s Vision Foundation exists to honour the legacy of a man who gave everything to others. Through every child we support and every life we help rebuild, we carry forward Jacob’s spirit - humble, fearless, and full of heart.