The Korea International Cooperation Agency Rwanda Alumni Association (KORAA) held its 2026 General Assembly on Friday, 2 October, at Caiman Kibagabaga, bringing together KORAA members, representatives of the Republic of Korea, KOICA Rwanda and newly joined alumni to celebrate the association’s achievements and strengthen its commitment to translating knowledge gained in Korea into meaningful impact in Rwanda.
The General Assembly was marked by the official welcome of H.E. Huh Jungae, the newly appointed Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Rwanda, and Mr. RA Kapchae, the newly appointed KOICA Rwanda Country Director. H.E. Huh Jungae is the first female South Korean Ambassador accredited to Rwanda.
The gathering also welcomed new KORAA members, providing an opportunity for them to connect with fellow alumni and become part of the association’s growing network of Rwandans who have studied, trained or participated in programs supported by the Republic of Korea through KOICA.
Strengthening the Rwanda–Korea partnership through alumni
The Assembly provided an opportunity to review KORAA’s activities and achievements throughout 2026, while discussing priorities and ideas for 2027.
In her message, KORAA President Adelphine Mukashema highlighted the association’s role in connecting Rwandans who have benefited from programs in Korea and ensuring that the knowledge and experience gained are shared and put to use for the benefit of communities and the country.
A year of knowledge sharing, community engagement and professional exchange
The General Assembly reviewed a number of activities implemented by KORAA throughout 2026.
Among the highlights was the Kwibuka 32 commemoration, held in April, which brought together 48 KORAA members and provided support to 45 families in Gasabo District. KORAA also conducted community outreach in Gicumbi in June, where 21 members participated in activities combining Umuganda, stunting awareness and practical community support, reaching 90 beneficiaries.
The association further expanded its knowledge-sharing activities, including a mentorship session at G.S. Busanza that reached 64 students and a knowledge-sharing session on the film and video industry organized in partnership with the East African University of Rwanda. The latter brought together four panelists and 78 students to discuss the development of Rwanda’s audiovisual and creative industries.
KOICA reaffirms its partnership with KORAA
Welcoming the alumni at the Assembly, KOICA Rwanda Country Director RA Kapchae commended KORAA for its growth, independence and professionalism.
“KOICA values KORAA as a trusted partner and an extension of our mission in Rwanda,” he said, emphasizing the importance of continued cooperation between Rwanda and Korea in areas including agriculture, education, youth and ICT.
The Assembly also provided an opportunity to reflect on KOICA Rwanda’s 2026 programs, including capacity-building initiatives, scholarships, volunteer programs and development projects implemented in partnership with Rwandan institutions. The 2026 KOICA program overview presented during the Assembly also highlighted country-specific training programs, scholarship opportunities, alumni engagement activities and the launch of the KORAA Digital Platform.
Celebrating stories, pictures and alumni contributions
The General Assembly also celebrated members for documenting and sharing their experiences as KOICA alumni.
Recognition was given to Best Stories, featuring:
- Bayishime Eric – Capacity Building on Academic-Industrial Cooperation for TVET in Rwanda
- Francine Saro Andrew – Knowledge Sharing & Community Outreach
- Tuyishime Herve Christian – Scholarship Programme at Kyungpook National University
- Odyssee Ndayisaba – Strengthening Rwanda Industrial Standardization ICT Capacity
- Charlotte Urukundo – Capacity Building for Policy Development and Coordination
The stories highlighted the different ways alumni have transformed their experiences in Korea into professional knowledge, community engagement, research and initiatives contributing to Rwanda’s development.
Francine Andrew Saro was also recognized for Best Photo, for the photograph accompanying her story about the KOICA–KORAA outreach visit to Gitagata Rehabilitation Centre, highlighting the human impact of alumni-led community engagement.
The celebration continued with an O/X group quiz and lucky draw, with prizes awarded to participating members and winners, adding an interactive and festive element to the Assembly.
Looking towards 2027
As KORAA looks ahead to 2027, members shared ideas aimed at strengthening professional networking, knowledge sharing, community engagement and the Rwanda–Korea relationship.
The association’s newly launched digital platform is expected to further support this work by providing a central space for alumni profiles, events, news, success stories, announcements and a visual archive of KORAA and KOICA activities.
The General Assembly concluded with a group photo session, networking and dinner, giving members an opportunity to reconnect, welcome new colleagues and celebrate another year of shared achievements.
KORAA remains committed to building lasting bridges between Rwanda and Korea by connecting people, sharing knowledge and transforming international learning experiences into practical contributions to Rwanda’s development.
About KORAA
The KOICA Rwanda Alumni Association (KORAA) is a network of Rwandans who have studied or received training in the Republic of Korea through KOICA-supported programs. The association brings alumni together to share knowledge and experience, support community initiatives, strengthen professional networks and contribute to Rwanda’s development.
