TDA was formed in 1985 as a result of the awareness that the interests of all people concerned with diabetes are best served by joining together and working as one national association. This will ensure the availability of more resources for diabetes including medicines, equipment, education, and mutual support.

Currently, TDA in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, PO-RALG and other international partners [Novo Nordisk, World Diabetes Foundation (WDF), International Diabetes Federation (IDF), Roche, Tanzania NCD Alliance (TANCDA)] is implementing several projects across the country aiming at building capacity for the national health care system to effectively prevent, detect and manage diabetes and its complications.