This study critically examines the governance and regulatory role of the Northern Cape Gambling and Liquor Board (NCGLB) in addressing liquor and gambling challenges within the Northern Cape province. It aims to evaluate how the Board’s functions impact public health, social wellbeing, and provincial development. The Northern Cape faces significant social and economic challenges stemming from alcohol abuse, illegal liquor trading, and problem gambling. Despite existing legislation, enforcement gaps, resource constraints, and rising illegal activities undermine effective regulation, exacerbating public health risks and social harms. Adopting a systematic qualitative approach, the study reviews legislative frameworks, policy documents, and recent empirical reports (2023–2025). It triangulates secondary data with stakeholder insights from government, civil society, and community actors to provide a comprehensive analysis of regulatory practices, challenges, and outcomes. The NCGLB plays a vital role in licensing, compliance monitoring, public education, and revenue oversight. However, enforcement challenges, especially in rural areas, and the proliferation of unlicensed outlets persist. Community engagement and multi-sectoral collaboration emerge as critical success factors. The reinvestment of gambling revenue supports social development but requires enhanced transparency and impact monitoring. This study contributes to understanding the dynamics of provincial liquor and gambling regulation in a resourceconstrained environment. It highlights the importance of integrated governance, community participation, and legal frameworks in balancing economic opportunities with social protection. Effective regulation of liquor and gambling in the Northern Cape hinges on strengthened institutional capacity, coordinated multi-stakeholder efforts, and ongoing policy reform. The NCGLB’s role is pivotal in fostering safer communities and sustainable provincial development, but persistent challenges demand innovative, inclusive strategies for long-term impact.