What influence did Arabs have on culture and government in east Africa?

Arabs significantly influenced East African culture and government through trade, intermarriage, and the spread of Islam from the 7th century onward. They established trade networks along the Swahili Coast, leading to the growth of city-states like Kilwa and Mombasa, which blended African, Arab, and Persian cultures. This cultural exchange is evident in the Swahili language, which incorporates Arabic vocabulary, and in architectural styles, as seen in the region's mosques and homes. Additionally, Islamic governance and legal practices were integrated into local systems, shaping the political landscape of the region.