There is substantial archaeological evidence that the Bantu people were farmers. Archaeologists have found evidence of early Bantu agricultural settlements dating back to the 2nd millennium BCE in West Africa. These settlements were characterized by the presence of domesticated plants such as millet, sorghum, and cowpeas, as well as evidence of animal husbandry. Additionally, archaeologists have uncovered remains of farming tools such as hoes and axes, as well as granaries for storing crops. These findings indicate that the Bantu were a settled people who relied on agriculture for subsistence.