Former Arsenal Academy coach, Mark Ellis, has partnered up with Pemba Sports Africa in Uganda as they look to further improve sport in the country.

Ellis arrives in the country with 28-years’ coaching experience, combined with consultancy, talent grooming, mentoring and scouting skills and is already getting to grips with his new role.

“I am not only here to coach but also motivate the different talents I will come across here,” Ellis said after conducting a session with 40 children.

Ellis, who has also worked with Derby County and West Ham, has also worked with Chipolopolo in Zambia ahead of their Africa Cup of Nations appearance and was first introduced to Ugandan football in 2015 when he arrived in the country with Rob Lee, the former Newcastle United player, however his links to the continent stretch back further.

Watch him talking in 2012 when he was still an Arsenal coach about his experience:

This new role will see Ellis work with the Rainbow International School on the Pemba football clinic project which aims to instil both skills and morals in the youngsters.

“As you can see, we are here to help assist in talent development in Uganda through schools,” said Jack Pemba.

“We are here to show our continued support to nurturing talent and here I present coach Ellis.”