Gold and Salt Trade in Saharan Africa

During the medieval period, the Gold and Salt Trade was a vital economic activity in Saharan Africa. Gold, highly valued for jewelry and currency, was abundant in West Africa, particularly in regions like Mali. In contrast, salt, essential for preservation and nutrition, was scarce in areas south of the Sahara. Traders crossed the harsh desert to exchange these resources: merchants would transport gold to northern cities in exchange for salt, which was transported back south. This trade not only enriched local economies but also facilitated cultural exchanges and the spread of Islam throughout the region, connecting diverse populations.