Final answer:
The early Bantu were primarily farmers but also engaged in fishing and root cultivation. They were skilled in ironworking and engaged in trade.
Step-by-step explanation:
The early Bantu were primarily farmers, cultivating crops such as sorghum and millet, and engaging in animal husbandry with cattle, pigs, and chickens. However, evidence suggests that they were also skilled fishermen and cultivated roots.
The Bantu settlements were located near iron ore and wood for smelting, indicating their proficiency in ironworking. Additionally, archaeological findings have revealed extensive copper and iron smelting, with copper used for trade and jewelry, and iron forged into tools and weapons.
The Bantu people also engaged in trade, exporting commodities like ivory, hides, quartz, and gems in exchange for cotton, glass, and jewelry.