The Chinese Government has denied claims of fuelling elephant and rhino deaths saying it was committed to helping Kenya increase its tourism revenue by supporting local wildlife conservation.

The Chinese Embassy chancellor, Mr Z. Cao blamed Western and African media of tarnishing his country’s name by claiming China provided a ready market for ivory and horn.

Speaking during a joint press conference with Narok County governor Samuel Tunai at Keekorok Lodge in Maasai Mara Game Reserve over the weekend, Mr Cao said all Chinese nationals visiting Kenya will from now on receive short text message alerts warning them against engaging in illegal wildlife trade.

“There are stringent penalties on wildlife crime introduced by various countries aimed at stopping carnage within wildlife sanctuaries of elephants and rhinos. Perpetrators of ivory trade and its products get up to life imprisonment,” he added.

Mr Cao was part of a powerful delegation including the…