How did songhai benin and kongo gain power?

Songhai, Benin, and Kongo gained power through a combination of strategic trade, military conquests, and centralized governance. Songhai expanded its influence by controlling key trade routes across West Africa, especially in gold and salt. Benin developed a robust political system and engaged in trade with Europeans, enhancing its wealth and military capabilities. Kongo built alliances with neighboring regions and utilized its resources, particularly in trade with Portugal, to strengthen its political structure and expand its territory.