Ferdinand in Uganda pledge

Andrew Jackson Oryada
BBC Sport, Kampala

Ferdinand (left) and president Museveni at the State House

England defender Rio Ferdinand has pledged to assist Uganda unearth a new generation of African football stars.

The Manchester United ace has completed a three-day tour of the country at the invitation of Proline Soccer Academy.

Ferdinand had the rare chance of meeting Uganda president Yoweri Museveni at the State House in Nakasero.

He vowed to help promote the activities of the academy to European clubs and also help in developing local talent.

"I am certainly going to help develop the Ugandan kids because they have the talent. I will help the academy," Ferdinand said.

"I would like to see Uganda produce players like Ivorian Didier Drogba and Ghana's Michael Essien in the future.

"I have come here to help the kids. That's the most important, to give them skills and inspiration of becoming important people and not only in football but in life as well."

President Museveni promised to help the Proline Soccer Academy by offering land to expand the facilities of the school.

He also vowed to waive taxes on goods being imported for purposes of developing football in Uganda.

Proline Soccer Academy is managed by former Uganda international Mujib Kasule.