Abstract—Cashew production and productivity has been constrained by biotic and abiotic factors which resulted in a large loss of revenue for both growers and the government. Currently a parasitic weed known as Cassytha filiformis also seems to be of economic importance in reducing cashew yields. Due to this importance from 2006/7 season, Naliendele Agricultural Research Institute (NARI) conducted a field survey to assess the existence, spread and control strategies used by farmers and this was followed by research trials in order to address the problem. A total of 350 cashew farmers from major cashew growing areas were interviewed. The survey findings revealed that the parasitic weed was prevalent in most cashew farms particularly to those villages along the coast. Existence of dodder weed was high to those villages located close to the sea compared to those which are far away from the sea. Also the preliminary research findings to date revealed that there is no biological or chemical control for the parasitic weed rather than physical or farm management practices. Correspondingly, several efforts have been done by NARI on awareness creation and also control strategies.