J. N. Njihia, M.M. Muraya, M. K. Njogu Cowpea, variability, traits, diversity, characterization 74-83 9 (3) 2025 July 2025 Characterization of the genetic diversity among cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) accessions is essential for breeding improved cultivars. This evaluated 50 cowpea accessions using 13 qualitative morphological traits. Twelve traits (92.3%) were polymorphic, each displaying at least two phenotypic classes, while leaf marking was monomorphic. The Shannon-Weaver diversity index ranged from 0 (monomorphic trait) to 0.38 (growth habit), indicating moderate diversity. The principal components analysis revealed that the first three components accounted for 47.97% of total variation, with eigenvalues of 2.46, 1.88 and 1.41, respectively. Cluster analysis showed clear differentiation among accessions, though some formed closely related groups. The results suggest the existence of useful genetic variability among the accessions, with those from distant clusters offering potential for use in breeding programs to broaden the genetic base of cowpea.