How did geography affect ancient Mali?

Answer 1

Although the current Mali area is landlocked, in ancient times, there was access to the ocean via the rivers. Most of the northern area is desert. Two rivers - the Niger and the Senegal - create areas where fishing and agriculture are successful. The Niger River is also navigable by larger vessels through much of the year. In ancient times, the periodic flooding of the river provided water for agriculture, much as the Nile River did in Egypt.

Answer 2

They lived rich because, they had so much salt and gold