Final answer:
The historical texts provided do not specify when Kolonkan became Sundiata's advisor. Sundiata's reign over Mali spanned from 1230-1255, during which he unified the Malinke peoples and chose Niani as the empire's capital.
Step-by-step explanation:
When discussing the history of the Mali Empire and the role of Sundiata Keita in its foundation and expansion, it is clear that the Malinke leader consolidating power and choosing advisors was a critical aspect. However, the specific historical texts provided do not detail when Kolonkan became Sundiata's advisor. Sundiata Keita's tenure as the founder and emperor of Mali spanned from approximately 1230-1255, during which he undertook the unification and expansion of the Mali Empire. This included convincing other Malinke kings to surrender their titles to him and selecting Niani as the capital of the empire. While the texts mention Sundiata's political and religious leadership, the establishment of trading centers like Gao, Jenne, and Walata, and his descendant Mansa Musa's reign, they do not provide specific information regarding the appointment of Kolonkan as an advisor.
It is important to recognize the significance of Sundiata's achievements in creating a realm that surpassed the wealth and size of Ghana and how this empire operated under a mixed Islamic and traditional African religious practice. This included Sundiata's empire being an imperial and wealthy hub in the upper Niger valley and becoming known for important trading centers that contributed to the prosperity and legacy of the Mali Empire.