The most accurate response to how East African culture was impacted by trade in the Indian Ocean trade network is:
Traders from Asia and the Middle East settled in East Africa and shared their cultural ideas, especially their religions.
This reflects the significant cultural exchange that occurred as a result of trade, including the introduction and spread of Islam along the East African coast, which intermingled with local traditions and led to the development of the unique Swahili culture. The Indian Ocean trade network facilitated interactions that influenced language, art, architecture, and religious practices in the region.