<p>The current rate of crop improvement in cowpea yields is insufficient to meet the nutritional demands of Malawi’s growing population by 2063. Production is further constrained by the widespread cultivation of low-yielding varieties that are highly susceptible to abiotic stresses. As climate variability intensifies, the urgent need to develop cowpea varieties with enhanced drought tolerance becomes increasingly evident. This review synthesizes current knowledge on breeding strategies for drought adaptation in cowpea, with a specific focus on their relevance and applicability within Malawi’s agricultural systems. A systematic literature review methodology, which covered up to 2025, was employed drawing on peer-reviewed articles, institutional reports, and regional case studies to evaluate both conventional and molecular breeding approaches. These include participatory variety selection, marker-assisted selection, genomic tools, and complementary agronomic practices that enhance genetic gains. The review also examines key physiological and morphological traits associated with drought resilience, such as early maturity and high yield potential. By identifying research and capacity gaps, the study proposes integrated breeding and management strategies to develop cowpea cultivars tailored to Malawi’s environmental conditions and socio-economic context. Through comparative and contextual analysis, the review highlights successful cowpea breeding interventions across sub-Saharan Africa and uses these insights to inform an integrated framework for drought-resilient cowpea development in Malawi. It advocates for a holistic approach that combines conventional and modern breeding techniques, participatory variety selection, and strengthened seed systems to improve varietal resilience and accelerate adoption. The findings aim to guide future research, influence policy development, and support the transition toward more climate-resilient agricultural systems in Malawi.</p>