Niani Summary

War had depleted the land of its food stores, so people come from far and wide to enjoy the remnants of Soumaoro's animals and grain. They all praise Sundiata for showing them abundance and his generosity. He grows restless and wants to return to Mali to reconstruct the palace at Niani.

As Sundiata marches home, the effects of his laws are obvious. He has set up punishment systems for crimes and there is no theft or murder. The people are so glad with his wise decisions they praise him everywhere he goes. New towns spring up all over the place and there is happiness and prosperity all across Africa.

The griot telling the tale switches to summary mode and discusses how Africa has not seen such a great emperor since Sundiata. Niani becomes the center of commerce, the capital of the continent. The...