Maseru
Paballo Tlhaole, a graduate of Limkokwing University of Creative Technology with a BA (HONS) in Tourism Management, has embarked on an inspiring journey to bring Lesotho’s rich cultural and historical heritage to the forefront through a unique trivia card game named Roalla.
Tlhaole’s passion for her homeland’s vibrant history and culture was the driving force behind the creation of this engaging and educational game.
“The inspiration behind creating Roalla came from my passion for Lesotho’s rich cultural and historical heritage. I noticed many people were unaware of our fascinating history and traditions. I wanted to create a fun, engaging way to educate and connect people with Lesotho’s unique identity,” Tlhaole explains.
The name “Roalla,” which symbolises gathering firewood, reflects the idea of gathering and sharing valuable information. The game aims to make learning about Lesotho enjoyable and interactive, bridging the gap between education and entertainment.
Developing Roalla was not without its challenges. One of the significant hurdles was updating the game’s content post-COVID-19, as many facts about Lesotho had changed. Tlhaole had to undertake thorough research and verification to ensure the accuracy of the information.
The printing and packaging process also posed difficulties, requiring several trials to find a reliable printer that could deliver attractive and durable packaging. “Overcoming these challenges required patience and adaptability, but staying focused on my goal helped bring ROALLA to life,” she adds.
The trivia questions in Roalla are selected based on Tlhaole’s extensive travel experiences and background in travel and tourism. Drawing from visits to historical sites, academic knowledge, and consultations with local experts, the game ensures a blend of personal experience and thorough research. This meticulous approach creates a game that is both fun and educational.
ROALLA introduces players to many surprising and lesser-known facts about Lesotho. For example, players can learn about Lesothosaurus, a small dinosaur whose fossils were found in Lesotho, highlighting the country’s significant paleontological history.
While there isn’t a special edition of Roalla specifically for the 200th anniversary of King Moshoeshoe I’s migration from Menkhoaneng to Thaba-Bosiu, the game celebrates this milestone by highlighting key aspects of Lesotho’s history and culture. To honor the bicentennial, Tlhaole has planned a series of Question and Answer sessions, reviews, and discussion events. These activities will explore Lesotho’s heritage and offer an engaging way for people to commemorate 200 years of the nation’s history through the Roalla Experience.
Roalla ensures it is both educational and entertaining for all ages by using a mix of easy and challenging questions, interactive elements, and highlighting diverse aspects of Lesotho’s culture and history. The game is designed to be fun and competitive, with regular feedback ensuring its continued relevance and enjoyment.
Roalla also plays a significant role in promoting Lesotho’s tourism by raising awareness of key attractions and encouraging exploration and appreciation of the country’s cultural and natural heritage. Collaborations with local organizations, such as KM Creatives podcast and the ROALLA Experience at Nobo Hub, further extend its reach and impact.
Feedback from players has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the game’s educational value and engaging approach. Tlhaole envisions expanding Roalla’s reach, updating its content over time, and integrating more interactive elements. Plans are underway to develop Roalla as an app and make it available on e-commerce platforms.
“The most rewarding aspect of creating and launching Roalla has been seeing how it brings people together to learn about and celebrate our beautiful country. Watching players engage with the game and gain a deeper appreciation for our history and culture is incredibly fulfilling,” Tlhaole shares.
A memorable moment for her was the official announcement of Roalla on Facebook, which received a warm and enthusiastic welcome. The launch at the Basotho Flea Market on June 1, 2024, was particularly special, with diverse participants actively engaging with the game and appreciating its educational and fun aspects.
