South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced South Africa will be moving to lockdown Alert Level 1 from midnight on Sunday.

"As we ease restrictions, we cannot let our guard down.   The few remaining restrictions under Alert Level 1 are meant to maintain low levels of infections and, in particular, to prevent super-spreading events," the president said. 

Ramaphosa gave an update on the country's response to the COVID-19 pandemic after consultations with the National Coronavirus Command Council (NCCC), the President's Coordinating Council (PCC) and Cabinet.

"New infections, admissions to hospital and deaths have fallen significantly and continue to decline steadily.   In the week that has just passed, the country recorded just under 10,000 new infections," 

"This dramatic decline in cases over eight weeks is due to a combination of the public health measures introduced, changes in behaviour and accumulating immunity in those who became infected in our communities," he said.

The president also said that the hours of the national curfew will be from 12 midnight to 4 am.

He also said that gatherings will be permitted, subject to limitations on size, adherence to social distancing and other health protocols including religious, social, political and cultural gatherings. The maximum number of people allowed at any gathering will be 100 people indoors or 250 people outdoors.

Night vigils or other gatherings before or after funerals are still not permitted and nightclubs will remain closed.

The sale of alcohol will be permitted, according to normal license provisions. However, no alcohol may be sold during the hours of curfew.

"Wearing a mask and avoiding crowds is even more important.   And it is now even more important that we all download the COVID Alert SA mobile app onto our cellphones," he said.

The 33 land border posts that have been closed throughout the lockdown period will remain closed, while the other 20 will remain open.

Only five airports will be open for international travel with standard infection control measures.

The president concluded his address by saying the measures are in place for the protection of the citizens.

"These measures are not merely to protect each of us but to also protect those we love and care for. Following these measures is about protecting yourself, your family and your community. It is about being responsible and caring." 

Nearly 50,000 people have died from COVID-19 in the country since the outbreak began. Around 1.5 million total infections have also been recorded.

(With input from agencies)