The Mali empire surprised me because of its remarkable contribution to education and scholarship. Before studying pre-colonial Africa, I did not know that Timbuktu became an important centre of learning, where scholars studied subjects such as law, mathematics, and astronomy.

What amazed me most was that its achievements went beyond wealth and trade. Books, manuscripts, and the exchange of knowledge were also important parts of its society.

For someone unfamiliar with this history, the Mali empire shows that Africa had thriving centres of intellectual life long before colonisation. Learning about it deepened my pride in Africa’s heritage and reminded me how much of our history deserves greater attention.