What was the empires of Ghana Mali and Songhai near that benefited from from it?

The empires of Ghana, Mali, and Songhai thrived in West Africa, primarily due to their control over trans-Saharan trade routes. They benefited significantly from the trade of gold, salt, and other valuable commodities, which facilitated wealth accumulation and economic prosperity. The empires also fostered cultural and intellectual exchange, leading to advancements in education, particularly in cities like Timbuktu. This interconnected trade network helped establish these empires as influential centers of commerce and culture in medieval Africa.