The correct response is: Traders from Asia and the Middle East settled in East Africa and shared their cultural ideas, especially their religions.
This response accurately reflects the impact of the Indian Ocean trade network on East African culture. Traders from various regions, including those from the Middle East and Asia, brought not only goods but also their cultural practices, languages, and religions, such as Islam and various aspects of Asian cultures. This interaction led to the development of a unique Swahili culture that blended local African traditions with influences from these traders.