Discuss the importance of the Indian Ocean trade in the rise and growth of the Swahili city states.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the view that the Indian Ocean trade played an important role in the rise and growth of the Swahili city states. Candidates may offer equal coverage of the Indian Ocean trade and other factors or they may prioritize their discussion of one over the other. However, both aspects will be a feature of the response. Candidates may refer to the Indian Ocean trade causing the emergence of markets some of which developed into city states such as Mogadishu, Lamu, Malindi, Zanzibar, Kilwa, Mozambique and Sofala, as a result of the expansion in trade and the wealth amassed. They may refer to the role played by the Sultan in encouraging trade and agriculture in the area, and the role of the Indian traders in the development of the city states such as Zanzibar. Other relevant factors may be addressed, such as the existence of great leaders and availability of trade resources, migration of Bantu people and the existence of natural harbours. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.