Zinder

“This action only serves to intimidate union members currently undergoing contract negotiations with the company from demanding what they deserve,” Zinder said in the statement.

A few weeks ago, a 19th Century mosque made from wood and straw collapsed in Zinder, the country's second-biggest city.

“Five paid sick days is a step in the right direction and workers will be less likely forced to risk their livelihoods to do the right thing and stay home when they’re sick because of this bill,” Andrea Zinder, president of the group’s Local 324 chapter, said in a statement.

Residents living in the cities of Niamey, Maradi and Zinder have power for about an hour at a time before it is switched off for up to five hours.

Back in Zinder, the pro-Russia businessman is positive about how Moscow can help his homeland.