Internal factors:
1. Succession Crises and Weak Leadership: Ghana faced a series of succession crises and power struggles after the death of its founder, King Kaya Maghan Cissé. This led to instability and weakened the central authority of the state.
2. Declining Trade and Economic Issues: Ghana's prosperity was heavily reliant on trade, particularly the trans-Saharan gold trade. However, over time, the trade routes changed and new trading centers emerged, leading to a decline in Ghana's economic power and influence.
3. Environmental Challenges: The region faced prolonged periods of drought and environmental degradation, which affected agriculture and reduced the productivity of the land.
External factors:
1. The Rise of the Almoravids: The Almoravids were a powerful Muslim movement from North Africa that expanded southward and conquered Ghana in the 11th century. Their military might and religious zeal played a significant role in the collapse of Ghana.
2. Increased Competition and Trade Disruption: The emergence of other trading powers in the region, such as the Songhai Empire and the Mali Empire, disrupted the trade routes and shifted economic dominance away from Ghana.
Ultimately, the collapse of Ghana was a result of a combination of internal weaknesses and external pressures. The succession crises and declining trade weakened the state from within, while the rise of external powers further contributed to its demise.