Due to his pilgrimage to Mecca, he became very well known across northern Africa and the Middle East. In Musa’s word, Islam gave him “an entry into the cultured world of the Eastern Mediterranean.” This lead him to spend much of his energy fostering the growth of Islam within his empire.
The pilgrimage took place from 1324 – 1325. On his return trips many scholars, architects and those that were viewed as highly educated joined his procession. Of the cities in his empire, Gao, was recaptures in 1325 and once Musa heard this news he made a detour to visit the city.
Gao was a rebellious but important trading center in his empire, so it held great importance to him. Upon arrival he was met with two hostages. These were the sons of the Gao king, Suleiman Nar and Ali Kolon. When he returned to Niani he had the two boys with him and educated him in his court.