How did the Mali empire become a major power in western Africa?

The Mali empire rose to power in western Africa by leveraging its strategic control over trans-Saharan trade routes and access to vital commodities, most notably gold and salt.12

Founded c. 1235 by Sundiata Keita, the empire expanded from the state of Kangaba by consolidating gold-bearing lands and securing the Niger River as a primary communication and transport artery. This economic foundation allowed the mansa (emperor) to maintain a powerful military, including a cavalry, which was essential for territorial expansion and defending trade interests.134

The empire reached its apogee under Mansa Mūsā I, whose famous pilgrimage to Mecca in 1324 showcased Mali's immense wealth to the world. His administration further cemented Mali's influence by patronizing Islamic scholarship and developing Timbuktu into a major center of commerce and culture. By taxing exchanged goods and maintaining control over key trading cities, Mali established a dominant economic and political position in the region for centuries.124