South Africa moves to lockdown Alert Level 1 on Monday, with the easing of many more restrictions. 

Mkhize says SA is not out of the woods and is urging people to comply with regulations.

"We are now searching for the vaccine, but before we get the vaccine, we can't rest. South Africans need to know that level 1 isn't like everything is over," he said. 

Mkhize also says there is still a risk of a second wave of COVID-19 infections.

"We have to make sure we take precautions. This COVID-19 can still resurge. We must not lose the message and be complacent."

South Africans will have more freedom under Level 1 from Monday.

eNCA