What group of people settled in Africa's coastal towns?

Coastal towns in Africa were historically settled by various groups, including traders, fishermen, and explorers. Notably, Arab traders established significant coastal trading posts along the East African coast, leading to the emergence of Swahili culture. Additionally, Europeans, particularly during the Age of Exploration, established settlements for trade and resource extraction, further influencing these coastal regions. Indigenous communities also played a crucial role in the development of these towns through trade and cultural exchange.