Large gold fields to the south of the ghana empire helped it rise to power in the 8th century the gold was used/

Sell it.

Explanation:

The Ghana Empire - 'Land of Gold'

One of the first sub-Saharan states in West Africa to gain attention in the wider medieval world was the Ghana Empire (6-13th century CE), located in modern-day southern Mauritania and Mali. The empire became famous for its gold, earning itself the nickname the 'land of gold. The rulers wanted to ensure that they would stay wealthier than their subjects.They controlled many trade routes, and do control Ghana better, they made governors rule different areas, and they responded only to the king.