Herinneren is een vorm van ontmoeten…

The day before, I was bragging of having had one of the best PhD supervisors and only to wake up to the shattering news of your passing. A mixture of wisdom, kindness and humility. May your family be deeply comforted during this time.

International Christian Fellowship - Enschede is schocked to hear of the sad news. Our thoughts and prayers are with the young family that has lost their husband and father. As a word of encouragement we cite Psalms 34:18:
"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."
On behalf of ICF-Enschede,
Paul van Dijk

I had the chance to work with Abel on project about coffee. It was during Covid times, challenging times. I remember that Abel's presence in online meetings was always a joy. I remember particularly his phrase "Let's hope for the best", when things were uncertain and I felt stressed. He also taught me a lot about crop suitability mapping. I am truly grateful to had the chance to know Abel, though we never met in person. I hope that his family finds strength to cope with the loss of Abel, and that his positive spirit continues to be present among them, his entire family, friends and colleagues.

I was deeply saddened to hear of Abel’s sudden passing. He was a kind, easy-going, and brilliant person, and it was a privilege to work alongside him. I will always remember the time we spent together while doing the UTQ Component 5 — his dedication, energy, and kindness made the process productive and enjoyable. He had a way of making complex things feel approachable.
I will also never forget his unique way of connecting his roots to his work — honoring his farming heritage by saying he “grew crops in his computers.” The phrase touched me as it reflected his creativity, humility, and respect for where he came from.
My thoughts are with his family and closest friends during this difficult time, and I hope they find comfort in knowing how many lives he touched and inspired.

With deepest sympathy,
Rosa

I am at a loss for words and can hardly process what I have just read, it was one of the most shocking and heartbreaking messages I have ever received on WhatsApp. Abel was more than just a mentor; he was a dear friend, an inspiring teacher, and a guiding light who gave a whole new dimension to my career journey. He was full of dreams, energy, and an infectious enthusiasm for life and learning.

May his beautiful soul rest in eternal peace!

Last week has been one of the most challenging times for me, following the passing of my dear friend and brother.

We connected deeply through our shared passion for agroecosystem modeling and simulations. From long conversations about coding and modeling in East Africa to jumpstarting this initiative together, our bond was more than professional it was visionary and personal.

We spent meaningful time in Potsdam, and we were always online, working tirelessly to grow crops in computers and recreate the farming world through virtual reality.

Life can feel unbearably sad and, at times, painfully surreal.

My heartfelt condolences go out to his family.
Abel, we love you wherever you are.

A friend in Ghana introduced us during my masters at ITC. You were such a good energy, very approachable and willing to listen anytime. You were such a good company. It was as if we had known each other for years. We spoke about family, friends, academics, internship, etc . I am glad I met you. I know your family will continue your legacy. May the good Lord keep you. Rest well my friend!