"High growth in the new subscriber base is currently spurring demand for mobile handsets. Growth in the low-end devices sector is increasing the availability of relatively affordable handsets," said Spiwe Chireka, industry analyst with Frost & Sullivan.

At the moment, Mobile subscription growth in sub-Saharan Africa is higher than the global average. Several handset vendors have concerted their efforts to expand their low-end device offerings to more effectively penetrate the region.

However, mobile network capabilities in the region still lag far behind that of multi-interactive devices. As a result, users in the region are deprived of a complete experience, despite significant improvements in the devices to support various applications.

Most mobile networks in sub-Saharan Africa offer only voice and SMS-centric services. Though there are various applications on devices that could enhance user experience and encourage usage and adoption, they are very expensive, further reducing the uptake of some middle and high-tier devices.

The new challenge is to manufacture cost effective mobile phones with multiple service feature that will appeal to the growing demand of handsets in the continent.