rephrase this

The harsh desert environment of the Sahara has limited settlement to oases and areas along the Mediterranean coast in North Africa. The presence of natural barriers such as mountain ranges has influenced settlement patterns by separating communities. The fertile Nile River Valley has been crucial in the development of settlements, with ancient civilizations thriving along its banks. Overall, geography has played a significant role in shaping where people choose to live in North Africa.

The Sahara's unforgiving desert conditions have constrained settlement to oases and coastal regions along the Mediterranean in North Africa. Natural barriers like mountain ranges have also impacted settlement by creating divisions between communities. The fertile Nile River Valley has been instrumental in supporting settlements, with ancient civilizations flourishing along its shores. In general, the geography of North Africa has been a major factor in determining where populations choose to reside.