Final answer:
The region being described is West Africa, known for its Islamic invasions and conversions, dominant gold and salt trade, and cities as centers for learning and trade.
Step-by-step explanation:
The region being described is West Africa. During the time period of the African Empires, Islamic invasions and conversions were significant events that transformed the region. The gold and salt trade dominated economic activity in West Africa, with cities like Goa and Timbuktu becoming important centers for learning and trade. Additionally, leaders of the West African empires undertook the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca.
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