(Telecompaper) The mobile penetration in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) region is expected to increase from 52 percent in 2012 to 79 percent in 2020, according to a new study. Mobile broadband connections are anticipated to quadruple from the 2012 figure to reach 160 million in 2016, said market researcher Frost & Sullivan. Overall, in terms of mobile phone usage, SSA will be the fastest growing region globally over the next seven years. Key drivers that increase the uptake of mobile broadband include the increased coverage of 3G networks, the rise of local content, and the development of a range of new apps. The younger generation is expected to drive the demand for mobile devices and services in the future. Furthermore, enterprise customers are demanding more advanced mobile services, such as fixed mobile convergence. The introduction of affordable smartphones, specifically designed for the African market, has also improved the market scenario.