Kenya and Costa Rica - Comparing Environmental Policies in 16 Countries - page 189

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Kenya and C osta Rica
Kenya and Costa Rica are comparatively small, developing tropical coun-
tries both enjoying reputations as natural paradises. Both are popular
destinations for eco-tourism. In terms of economic development, they
are emerging, with GDPs of $66 billion and $51 billion, respectively. They
differ, however, in geographical size and population. Kenya has ten times
the size and ten times the number of people. Costa Rica has a vibrant
democracy, whereas Kenya has the official forms of democracy, but a
history of conflict.
Kenya is an environmental paradise, and at the same time, a typical
developing country with dirty air and water. The country is famed for
its wildlife, making it a destination for travelers from all over the world.
Its mountains and plains are home to vast herds of zebras, gazelles, and
wildebeests. Lions stalk them as prey. Elephants, giraffes, and rhinos
graze nearby. In the distance Mount Kenya and Kilimanjaro rise above
them. Its famous national parks seem to be Edens. Yet life in the slums
of Nairobi or Mombasa or Kisumu is far from paradise, with smog, pol-
luted water, and poverty. Population has grown greatly, 2.5% annually, to
over 40 million. The average woman has four children, making it one of
the most fecund countries in the world, yet lower than several others in
Africa. In its politics, Kenya is stable compared to others in Africa. Since
its independence in 1963, it has not suffered a successful coup or a revolu-
tion. With one major exception, violence has been slight. Economically,
it has been prosperous, at least compared to others on the continent. Its per
capita income is $1,600 with a growth rate of 4%. Tribally and ethnically,
it is diverse. Governmentally, it is the product of its colonial structure.
In short, it is typical of sub-Saharan Africa.