Mali

Mali is a large landlocked country in West Africa. It was once part of powerful African empires and is home to the legendary city of Timbuktu. Mali has the Sahara Desert in the north and the Niger River flowing through it.

Land and People

About 22 million people live in Mali. The capital is Bamako. Northern Mali is Sahara Desert while the south is greener. The Niger River provides water for farming and fishing. The Great Mosque of Djenne is the largest mud building in the world.

Culture and Fun Facts

Timbuktu was once a great center of learning with thousands of ancient books. The Mali Empire was one of the richest in history. Malians love music, and the kora, a stringed instrument, makes beautiful sounds. People eat rice with peanut sauce and grilled meat.

Fun Facts

• Timbuktu was once a great center of learning with a famous university.
• The Great Mosque of Djenne is the largest mud-brick building in the world.
• Mansa Musa of the Mali Empire is considered one of the richest people who ever lived.

Did You Know?

Mansa Musa ruled the Mali Empire in the 1300s and is thought to be the richest person who ever lived. When he traveled to Mecca, he gave away so much gold that it crashed the gold market in Egypt. His wealth would be worth hundreds of billions today.