Kalema's three Wuzheng tricycles each help him bring in at least 780 yuan ($107) a week, enough to earn him a name as a successful entrepreneur in the community.

"What's most important for my business is loading capacity, durability and fuel efficiency," said Kalema, adding that for those reasons, Wuzheng's tricycles, known locally as WAW Tuku-Tuku vehicles, are crucial for farmers, workers and other locals like himself.

"In comparison with a petrol tricycle, with a WAW diesel tricycle we save over 30 percent daily on fuel alone," he said. "The support and service team is amazing ... we can move toward a better tomorrow with these machines."

Kalema's experience and that of many others like him reflect the positive impact that major Chinese companies are having in Uganda.

In line with the Belt and Road Initiative promoting shared development, Wuzheng Group is helping Ugandan farmers with agricultural mechanization, reducing labor costs while increasing production and incomes.