the Roots of Ghana Empire

This study aims to contribute to our historical understanding of the period preceding the Ghana Empire, known as Wagadou. The sources are oral, although some information comes from manuscripts preserved by a few traditionalists. Migrations bring with them culture, organizational systems, and ethnic mixing. The most significant migrations were those of the Berbers, Jews, Mestizos, Fulani, and Black Africans. Before the founding of the city of Koumbi and the Kingdom of Wagadou, population movements contributed to the formation of three major cities: Oumy, Néma, and Dia. Three types of political entities emerged in West Africa: leagues formed by Black tribes south of the Niger River; confederations established by Berbers and Blacks; and Black-Berber kingdoms. The Kingdom of Wagadou, drawing inspiration from these political entities, would later emerge in these territories.