After the death of Sonni Ali, the ruler of the kingdom of Songhai was Askia Muhammad. Askia Muhammad was one of the most prominent rulers of the Songhai Empire, known for his strong leadership, military prowess, and efforts to promote Islam within the empire. Askia Muhammad came to power through a coup against the previous ruler, Sonni Baru, and he established the powerful Askia dynasty which ruled over Songhai for several generations. Under his reign, the empire experienced a period of stability, expansion, and prosperity.
Other rulers listed in the options are not directly connected to ruling the kingdom of Songhai after Sonni Ali's death:
- Mansa Musa was a famous ruler of the Mali Empire, known for his wealth and pilgrimage to Mecca.
- Sundiata Keita was the founder of the Mali Empire, not associated with the Songhai Empire.
- Manden Kurafa is a term related to the establishment of the Mali Empire under Sundiata Keita, not the Songhai Empire.
Therefore, the correct answer to the question is Askia Muhammad.
