The West African kingdoms were crossroads for trade due to their strategic location at the nexus of several major trade routes. These routes connected the kingdoms with other regions of Africa, as well as with the Mediterranean, the Middle East, and Europe.
The kingdoms were rich in natural resources, such as gold, ivory, and salt, which were highly valued by traders from other regions. In exchange for these goods, West African merchants traded for a variety of goods, including textiles, horses, and luxury items like glass and beads.
The kingdoms also developed sophisticated systems of trade and commerce, including currency, marketplaces, and trade organizations. These systems allowed merchants to conduct trade safely and efficiently, which helped to encourage the growth of commerce and trade in the region.