What body of water was important to both Mali and Songhai

The important body of water to both the Mali and Songhai empires was the Niger River. It served as a vital trade route, facilitating commerce and communication between different regions. The river was crucial for agriculture, providing irrigation and supporting the growth of crops, which in turn supported the economies of both empires. Additionally, the Niger River played a key role in the cultural and social development of the societies that flourished along its banks.