In many cultures, Mali is famous thanks to Timbuktu (Tombouctou in French) which is used in phrases and quotes to suggest something beyond ones experience or a great distance which may not be reached. Because Timbuktu is so remote, desolate and terribly difficult to get to, rumors spread about it. Timbuktu was also an important intellectual and spiritual center for the Islamic world. People would travel from as far away as Saudi Arabia to study there.

The Songhai of West Africa live in extended families which are centred around the male heads of households, who have the responsibility to keep the family strong and united. One of their priorities is to keep all family members grounded in the Islamic faith and practice. Though the majority of the Songhai profess an adherence to Islam, they also follow animistic beliefs and practices. The Songhai people are one of over 2,000 people groups worldwide who have the least access to the gospel; there are few Christians among the Songhai (possibly 0.2 per cent or less).