Joy's Bammies - Teacher turns bammy maker

George Henry, Gleaner Writer

Joy Samuda is in the business of producing bammies for the local market at Content near Nain in St Elizabeth. Her entry into small business came about seven years ago, when she and her husband, who were both teaching, decided that they wanted to have an income to supplement their salaries.

"We thought of doing it and, then, I guess as a child, his mother used to bake and sell bammies, so he had that early knowledge and sold the idea to me. I am from Westmoreland and did not know anything about bammymaking," said Samuda.

She explained that she was a bit apprehensive at first as she was uncertain as to how the business would work out. However, after being encouraged by persons outside of her family, Samuda decided to venture into the production of bammies.

"Persons told me that it was a lucrative business, as the demand for bammy was good. People were becoming more health conscious; and bammy is one of the high-fibre foods that they prefer, so we thought it was a good idea and sought funding," said the businesswoman.

She said it was not difficult for her to acquire the necessary funding to start the business, and she already had access to lands for planting and a building from which to operate. When she started the business, Samuda said her first customer was Annabella Seaga (daughter of former Prime Minister Edward Seaga), who was in the business of supplying bammy to several supermarkets.

Samuda pointed out that her supplying Seaga, was sufficient to keep the business running, due to the large order. At that time, Samuda had to bake bammies every day.

"When Annabella got married and left Jamaica, the business slowed down and I had to seek market elsewhere. We were unable to pick up the business with the supermarkets Seaga supplied. We were not marketing the product properly; so business changed," remarked Samuda.

Samuda, who told The Gleaner that she currently makes bammies of various sizes and shapes, a job she does with passion, also spends a lot of time cooking and baking other products.

"I have grown to love bammymaking," she added with enthusiasm.

Now retired, she is in the business full-time, but her husband is somewhat hesitant about it. They encountered significant losses from customers who refused to pay money owed.

But, Samuda has not been deterred and is currently producing the product, supplying several supermarkets; restaurants, including Little Ochi Seafood Restaurant, and individuals; and, at the same time, providing employment for eight persons, and allowing a small number of producers of cassava to earn a livelihood.

"My bammy is organic, there is just a tinge of salt in it," said Samuda.

The businesswoman supplies roasted peanuts and plans to produce by-products of cassava, including cassava flour and cereal.