One significant factor that contributed to the downfall of the Songhai Empire was the invasion by Moroccan forces in the late 16th century. In 1591, the Moroccan Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur sought to gain control over the lucrative trans-Saharan trade routes and attempted to expand his empire. He dispatched a well-equipped army with firearms to conquer Songhai.
The Songhai Empire, already facing internal strife and weakened by political fragmentation, was unable to effectively resist this invasion. The lack of modern military technology, especially in comparison to the Moroccan forces, significantly contributed to their defeat. Additionally, the decline of centralized power, as various regions vied for control, weakened the empire further.
Other factors that played a role in the downfall included economic decline due to disruptions in trade, the loss of key cities along trade routes, and rising competition from other emerging powers in the region. Altogether, these factors culminated in the end of the Songhai Empire's dominance in West Africa.
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