For Emaan Oosthuizen’s family, what should have been a place filled with childhood memories has now become a lasting tribute to a little girl whose life was tragically cut short.

The seven-year-old was killed in gang crossfire while playing in the street near her home in Ocean View in February 2020.

On Wednesday, 2 September 2026, the park (Libra Road Park) where Emaan would often play was officially renamed Emaan Oosthuizen Park, bringing an emotional moment for her family and the wider community.

Emaan’s father, Azmir Oosthuizen, said the day was incredibly special for his family.

“It was a very emotional day. We got a lot of support from the community, especially seeing the children from the daycare up the street from where we live enjoying the park and everything that was put into place for them.”

For Oosthuizen, seeing children enjoying the same space where his daughter once played was particularly meaningful.

“It just made the day even more special for us as a family, knowing that other children can enjoy this park and make happy memories here.”

He also thanked Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis for following through on commitments made to the family.

“I want to thank the Mayor for keeping to his word and the promises he made to my family. Seeing the park renamed after Emaan means a lot to us.”

The renaming of the park in memory of his daughter during the month of September makes the occasion even more meaningful for Oosthuizen and his family.

Emaan’s birthday is on 19 September, just days after the renaming ceremony.

The renaming ceremony was attended by Mayor Hill-Lewis, Deputy Mayor Eddie Andrews, Chair of the City’s Renaming Committee, and Councillor Francine Higham, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health.

The ceremony included the planting of trees, the unveiling of new park signage and wall artwork, as well as refurbished play equipment, including a seesaw, roundabout and hopscotch.

Mayor Hill-Lewis said the new name represents hope for the Ocean View community.

“It was so special joining Emaan’s family and the Ocean View community today, as a symbol of our hope and determination for a better future for our children and communities.”

The Mayor also recalled supporting the family during key moments of the five-year-long court case that followed Emaan’s murder.

“It was my honour to support the family at court during key moments of the five-year-long trial, and as justice was finally done with the court’s conviction of her killers.”

In May 2025, two men were sentenced to 35 years in prison without the possibility of parole after being convicted of Emaan’s murder, the attempted murder of four others and the possession of illegal firearms.

Deputy Mayor Eddie Andrews said the park’s new name should serve as a reminder of the community’s strength.

“May the tragedy of Emaan’s story in the future be associated with the resilience of local families to keep striving for a better tomorrow.”

Councillor Francine Higham said the City hoped the community would continue to work together to protect and care for the park.

“The City’s goal is for our parks to support recreation, environmental conservation and social well-being.”