In a chilling incident that highlights a growing global crisis, UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was shot in broad daylight outside a New York hotel. The alleged perpetrator, Luigi Mangione, was arrested at the scene. What sets this case apart is the weapon: a “ghost gun” — an untraceable firearm assembled at home or produced using 3D printing technology.

Ghost guns are a rising menace. In 2022 alone, over 25,000 of these weapons were recovered across the United States, a stark indication of their proliferation. Unlike traditional firearms, ghost guns lack serial numbers, making them almost impossible to trace. This anonymity not only hampers law enforcement but also opens doors for criminal enterprises and unchecked violence.

The issue, however, is not confined to the United States. Ghost guns are becoming a global challenge. While some nations, such as Australia and Singapore, have enacted strict measures to combat their spread, many countries are struggling to address the rapid evolution of this technology. Without effective policies, ghost guns could become the weapon of choice for criminal networks, insurgencies, and lone actors worldwide.

Africa is no stranger to the dangers posed by illicit arms. Across the continent, efforts to curb the trafficking and misuse of conventional firearms have been ongoing for decades. However, the advent of ghost guns represents a new frontier. With access to 3D printing technology expanding and materials becoming more affordable, the risk of unregulated arms entering African communities cannot be ignored.

What can be done? Countries must act swiftly to bridge the gap between technological advancements and existing legal frameworks. Comprehensive legislation, international cooperation, and robust public awareness campaigns are critical. Moreover, Africa’s unique perspective on arms control could serve as a blueprint for tackling ghost guns globally. Lessons from initiatives like the African Union’s efforts to “Silence the Guns” by 2030 could provide valuable insights into combating this emerging threat.

As ghost guns continue to evade traditional arms regulations, the challenge is clear: can the law keep pace with innovation? For nations worldwide, especially in the Global South, addressing this issue isn’t just a question of safety—it’s a matter of sovereignty, security, and the protection of future generations.