Soumaoro Kante

Soumaoro Kante ruled the Sosso Kingdom as a feared sorcerer-king, using supernatural powers to maintain control. He was known as a blacksmith king, possessing magical abilities that inspired terror among his subjects and enemies alike.

Soumaoro Kante conquered the remnants of the declining Ghana Empire, incorporating its territory into the Sosso Kingdom. He captured the capital Koumbi Saleh and established Sosso as the dominant power in the region, ending Ghana's centuries-long rule.

Soumaoro Kante's Sosso army was decisively defeated by Sundiata Keita's coalition at the Battle of Kirina. Soumaoro reportedly used sorcery during the battle but was overcome. His defeat led to the collapse of the Sosso Empire and the rise of the Mali Empire.