A comparative overview of the development experience between Jamaica and Ghana since 1960 - Essay Example

According to (What is Development? 2004), the priorities of countries differ as outlined in their development policies. For instance, the goal of some countries may merely involve increasing national wealth whereas in others may involve improving the well-being of the citizens. In relation to the definitions provided, I will define development as a dynamic process. In relation to my definition, I will compare the development experience between Jamaica and Ghana extensively since 1960. In addressing this, I will detail on the indicators of development that include eradication of poverty, the realization of human basic needs, protection of human rights, and the increase in national wealth.

Jamaica is a country in the North America continent with approximately 2.8 million people. It is one of the countries in the world that has undergone several stages of development which are well defined by social, economic as well as political outlook (Revitalizing the Jamaican Economy, 2004). Despite Jamaica having an independent Constitution that recognizes equal rights of all people, the residual impacts of a society purposely shaped in inequality upholds. Over the last three decades, Jamaica’s economy as well as society has been evolving significantly.

Unfortunately, the majority of the people tend to doubt the country’s developmental potential. In the 1960s, the growth of Jamaica was very significant (LeFranc, 1994). The country’s gross domestic product (GDP) was approximately 5% each year (differing from 3 to 12%). This was boosted by not only the expansion of bauxite, but also alumina and tourism (LeFranc, 1994). However, this growth trend started to fail at the beginning of the 1970s. This was a result of the populist government of the 1970s diversion of attention on redistribution as well as equity instead of growth (Fosu, 2007).

The expansionary