The Mali Empire, also historically referred to as the Manden Kurufaba, is a Mandinka empire in West Africa from c. 1230 to c. 1600.

The empire is founded by Sundiata Keita and becomes renowned for the wealth of its rulers, especially Mansa Musa.

The Mali Empire has many profound cultural influences on West Africa, allowing the spread of its language, laws and customs along the Niger River.

It extends over a large area and consists of numerous vassal kingdoms and provinces.