The bend of the Niger River was the focal point of trade in Western Sahara. Why was this river so important?

A.
The Niger did not experience annual flooding and was safe to travel on.
B.
The Niger River is the only saltwater river in Africa.
C.
The Niger provided easy access to the Nile River and Egypt.
D.
The Niger is the closest major source of water to the Sahara desert.

1 answer

The correct answer is:

D. The Niger is the closest major source of water to the Sahara desert.

The Niger River played a crucial role in trade and sustenance for civilizations in the region, particularly because it provided a vital water source in the midst of the arid Sahara desert, facilitating agriculture and trade routes.