What effect did the growth of trade have on some west African towns?

The growth of trade significantly transformed many West African towns by enhancing their economic prosperity and social structures. As trade routes expanded, towns like Timbuktu and Gao became vibrant commercial centers, attracting merchants and scholars from various regions. This influx of wealth facilitated cultural exchanges, leading to advancements in education, arts, and architecture. Consequently, these towns grew in population and influence, becoming key players in regional and trans-Saharan trade networks.