China’s electric vehicle ecosystem is expanding far beyond its own borders, and Africa is becoming one of the most important frontiers. In Uganda, electric motorcycles, battery-swapping stations, and locally assembled electric buses are transforming mobility while creating new opportunities for skills development and industrial growth.

This report traces Africa’s mobility journey from the era of Mansa Musa and colonial transport networks to Japanese cars, Indian motorcycles, and today’s electric revolution. As Chinese companies bring batteries, manufacturing expertise and investment to the continent, a bigger question emerges: will Africa simply adopt these technologies, or help build and shape them?

Can Uganda become a blueprint for Africa’s e-mobility future? Watch the full story and subscribe to DW REV for more reports on the future of mobility, innovation, and the global automotive industry.