“A useless place of rocks and stones” they called it. Yet here we stand before the Paga Hill Telikom Tower a testament to transformation. This imposing structure didn’t always dominate the skyline.
Paga Hill’s story begins long before this tower. It was known as Elakurukuru a Motu term meaning a point of land a canoe’s bow or even a nose. Papuans considered it barren. The colonial administration deemed it waste and vacant land in 1901. Over time the side facing the city became a prestigious residential area while industrial development thrived near the port. The hilltop offered stunning views becoming a popular tourist lookout.
The lower slopes however were too steep for residential or industrial use. The sea received the city’s waste. Settlement didn’t begin until the 1960s. Two men Maira Nakaia and Papua Amogoa are credited with establishing the settlement. Their involvement in night soil collection linked them to Paga Hill. They were joined by family and downtown workers. Paga Hill evolved into an informal settlement.
Then came the rapid changes. The Paga Hill Development Company’s ambitious plans transformed this area. The construction of the Telikom Tower itself marks a pivotal moment. It symbolizes progress and development in the heart of Port Moresby. The tower’s modern design contrasts starkly with the hill’s historical significance.
The development involved complex legal battles and controversies. The Public Accounts Committee’s 2009 report highlighted the social cultural and historical importance of Paga Hill. It noted wartime bunkers gun emplacements tunnels and possible prehistoric sites. The report also criticized the land leases and questioned the legality of some transactions. Despite controversies Paga Hill continues to develop.
Today the Paga Hill Telikom Tower stands tall. It serves as a communication hub for Telikom. It offers magnificent views of the city and the ocean. The tower’s presence underlines Paga Hill’s journey from neglected land to a vibrant modern area. It’s a sight that blends history with the promise of a dynamic future. The tower itself is a symbol of this transformation and a landmark visible throughout Port Moresby. Its presence enhances the ever-evolving landscape of Paga Hill.