When Islam entered North Africa, it absorbed its culture and provided structure to society. Women in North Africa also received more rights. Similarly, women in South Asia have received more rights. Islam has had an economic impact on society. As Islam had spread across much of Africa and established itself in South Asia, trade had begun to grow. Muslims trading with other Muslims led to the development of a trade network. Near the Indian Ocean, monsoons provided an easy method of travel. The combination of easy transportation and the need for diverse goods and services produced a growing economy of the Muslim empire and created many commercial and port cities. Unlike South Asia, many parts of North Africa were undeveloped. The rise of Islam led to the development of areas of North Africa. Public constructions of mosques and public buildings were carried out and there was an increase in the sense of community. Overall, Islam has produced an increase in the economic wealth and development of many underdeveloped areas