Artists, musicians and sporting heroes gathered at Gallagher Estate in Midrand in support of the ANC's election manifesto on Wednesday.

"I am here because a better government means a better economy and a better economy means a better life for all," said poet, kwaito musician and actor Zola 7 on why he supported the ruling party's manifesto.

ANC president Jacob Zuma addressed the star-studded audience saying South Africa's cultural heritage was one of its "richest and most important resources".

"The music industry has the potential create employment and wealth for thousands of people. Trade value of music sector as a whole is estimated at over R2-billion. The sector creates employment for more than 70 percent of our youth," Zuma said.

Sport was also a key contributor to the economy, he said, with "massive dividends" expected from the country hosting the 2010 Fifa Soccer World Cup.

Abigail Kubeka, Chicco Twala, Mercy Pakela, Mzwakhe Mbuli, Solly Moholo, Arthur, Triple Nine, Zola 7, Mara Louw and Dali Mpofu were some of the celebrities seen at the Midrand venue.

ANC head of policy, Jeff Radebe, was programme director and many National Executive Committee members were present - including Housing Minister Lindiwe Sisulu, Safety and Security Minister Nathi Mthethwa, and SA Communist Party general secretary Blade Nzimande.

The ambassadors to Korea, Vietnam and the Democratic Republic of Congo and head of Anglo American South Africa, Kuseni Dlamini, were also present.

The audience rose to greet Zuma as he was led into the hall by Nomkhunbulwana Mkathini flanked by singer Mara Louw who held onto his hand.

Singing 'Umshini Wami'

After the national anthem was sung, Louw's choir broke out into the ANC president's signature tune, Umshini Wami, Zuma joined in and danced with Louw to the delight of the audience.

Zuma, appearing relaxed in a black and gold shirt, entertained the audience by dancing with businessman Patrice Motsepe.

His legal woes, with the NPA mulling a decision on whether to proceed with a corruption case against him, seemed distant in the jovial setting.

Zuma said the government planned to develop the cultural sector by introducing subsidies, through Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment, local investment and the growth of independent record companies.

"We are now wiser and we are a free people. We must be businesslike in our approach, and we must protect and defend our cultural heritage," he said.

The ANC president congratulated musicians such as Hugh Masekela and Tshepo Tshola on the role they played in the Healthy Lifestyles Campaign, including the anti-tobacco campaign and action against alcohol and substance abuse.

Zuma also spoke on the ANC's plan to tackle crime and its proposed introduction of a National Health Insurance.