"Explain why oral tradition is considered the most important source for studying the history of ancient Rwanda despite its limits."

The question asks: "Explain why oral tradition is considered the most important source for studying the history of ancient Rwanda despite its limits."

Oral tradition is crucial for studying ancient Rwandan history because, before the colonial era, Rwanda had no widespread written tradition. Knowledge, laws, genealogies, and historical events were passed down through generations via storytelling, proverbs, songs, and epic poems. This made it the primary means of preserving the past and understanding the social, political, and cultural structures of the time.

Despite its importance, oral tradition has limitations, such as potential distortions, omissions, or embellishments over time as stories are retold. However, for ancient Rwanda, it remains the most direct and comprehensive source available for historical reconstruction.