Colorful cars rapide represent an iconic mode of public transportation in Dakar, Senegal. But they're scheduled to be phased out of the congested West African capital city by December 2018, in favor of more modern, cleaner-running buses. Many will lament the vibrant minibuses' passing.
A Transporting Experience
![Neyoo Diallo paints cars rapide, the iconic minibuses that barrel down Dakar's roadways. The decorations have evolved over the years and have cultural significance. (R. Shryock/VOA)](https://gdb.voanews.com/857b6f29-aef8-4784-8453-5ea7c5091a75_w1024_q10_s.jpg)
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Neyoo Diallo paints cars rapide, the iconic minibuses that barrel down Dakar's roadways. The decorations have evolved over the years and have cultural significance. (R. Shryock/VOA)
![An Indian-made Tata passes a car rapide in Dakar, Senegal. Authorities are planning to retire the colorful minibuses by late 2018. (R. Shryock/VOA)](https://gdb.voanews.com/86e2efbb-653a-4fd4-b5da-08fe00f9d269_w1024_q10_s.jpg)
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An Indian-made Tata passes a car rapide in Dakar, Senegal. Authorities are planning to retire the colorful minibuses by late 2018. (R. Shryock/VOA)