They used it in trade to increase their wealth and power.
In ancient Songhai, a prominent West African empire, goods included gold, salt, ivory, and kola nuts, which were significant trade items. The empire thrived on the trans-Saharan trade routes, facilitating the exchange of these commodities with regions as far as Europe and the Middle East. Additionally, textiles, grains, and leather goods were also important in the local economy. The wealth generated from these goods contributed to Songhai's prosperity and cultural development.
The gold and salt trade
Ghana
no
GHANA AND MALI
Yes, it did.
Songhai traded gold and salt
Ghana, Mali, and Songhai DID mine gold and salt
No, they used Cowry shells as their currency. But gold, salt and copper was also accepted.
Gold, salt, ivory, iron.
salt,gold(of course),animal hides,koala nuts,
The Songhai empire controled the gold and salt trade, which gave them their money and power over West Africa.
Sahara and valuable salt and gold mines of central Africa
Salt and gold.
The Songhai empire traded mostly salt and gold.
The ancient kingdoms of Mali, Ghana, and Songhai grew very rich from the salt and gold trade before European Colonization.
Gold and salt